What Are Learning Disabilities?

Source: National Adult Literacy and Learning Disabilities Center

The term "learning disability" means a disorder in one or more of the basic processes involved in understanding spoken or written language. It may show up as a problem in a person’s ability to listen, think, speak, read, write, spell, or do math, despite at least average intelligence.

The term "learning disabled" does not refer to children who have learning problems which are primarily the result of visual, hearing, or physical disabilities, mental retardation, emotional disturbance, or environmental, cultural, or economic disadvantage.

Did You Know???

Source: National Adult Literacy Survey
("Bridges to Practice" Newsletter, Volume 1, Issue 1)

• 43% of Learning Disabled adults live at or below the poverty level as compared to 18% of the general population.

• 12.1% of Learning Disabled adults are on TANF (government subsidy) as compared to 5.8% of the general population.

• 17.5% of Learning Disabled adults are entering post-secondary education as compared to 43% of the general population.

• 48% of Learning Disabled adults are out of the workforce or unemployed as compared to 26% of the general population.

• Less than 16% of adults with Learning Disabilities report receiving special services for learning disabilities.