Cognitive

A cognitive disability is an impairment of a person’s ability to comprehend what is seen or heard, and then to infer information from social subtleties and body language.

Cognitive disabilities may include, but are not limited to, autism, mental retardation, learning disabilities, Down syndrome, and Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI).

THINGS TO KNOW
Persons with cognitive disabilities

  • do not have psychiatric disorders.
  • can learn on an uncomplicated level.

THINGS TO DO
When ministering to a person with cognitive disability,

  • use very clear and basic language.
  • break tasks down into smaller steps.
  • speak in age-appropriate language.

THINGS NOT TO DO
When ministering to a person with a cognitive disability,

  • avoid speaking in condescending and patronizing overtones.
  • do not limit the person’s skills based on preconceived notions and limited perceptions.

THINGS NOT TO SAY
The following terms are negative or inappropriate:

  • retarded
  • dumb
  • feeble minded
  • stupid
  • imbecile
  • unfortunate