A learning disability affects the way a person learns new things throughout their life. A learning disability is different for everyone. No two people are the same. A person with a learning disability might have some difficulty:
- Understanding complicated information
- Learning some skills
- Looking after themselves or living alone
In Lancashire and South Cumbria we want our healthcare services to support people with a learning disability to access health services easily. Doctors and other health workers might be able to tell if a person has a learning disability when they are very young. But some people get a diagnosis later in their lives. This can be when they are adults.
If you are diagnosed with a learning disability, you might be referred to other health professionals to get the support you need.
For more information: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/learning-disabilities/
More information about learning disabilities including, what support is available, can be found on the Mencap website.
A learning difficulty, such as dyslexia and ADHD, is often confused with learning disabilities. To find out the difference please read the page on learning difficulties by Mencap.