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Mental impairment Mental Impairment may result from: - genetic or chromosome anomaly
- severe infections
- lack of oxygen during birth
- accident with severe cerebral injuries
- post traumatic stress
- drug abuse.
What do I need to know? Mentally impaired people have reduced intellectual abilities. The degree differs from one person to the other and depends among other factors on the (social) training this person has received. Particularly affected is the ability to comprehend the concept of time and space. Most people with a mental disability are very sensitive and may sense what is happening around them rather than understand it. Thus they may be perfectly aware of what is happening. People with mental disabilities often show considerable musical talents (a sense of rhythm, etc.) Their emotional and physical needs may sometimes make it difficult for the mentally disabled to refuse or to set limits and rules for interaction with others. Whom should I talk to? - first the person him/herself
- parents, friends, teachers
- a psychologist and physician should be consulted before starting sports activities
What should be avoided? - As there is no "average" level of mental disability, there is no "average" way of practising sports and similar activities. Including a person with a mental disability means giving her/him enough time to understand the rules and to get used to the team, the equipment and the surroundings.
- Time pressure and physical stress should be avoided.
- There should be enough time to develop the relationship with team members step by step and in stable conditions. It is not advisable to introduce new team members quickly or to take out the people with mental disability when doubts about their capacities first arise.
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