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Multiple Disabilities
Multiple disabilities is the term used when a person has more than one impairment, generally a physical disability in combination with one or more sensory and/or intellectual disability. There may also be epileptic fit and behavioural problems.
People with multiple disabilities
may exhibit a wide range of characteristics. This depends
on the combination and severity of disabilities as well
as the person’s age. However, these people have a common
need that is basic living skills. Some of the characteristic
are:
- Intellectual disabilities
- Limited speech or communication
- Difficulty in basic physical
mobility
- Tendency to forget skills due
to lack of practice
- May have complicating physical
or health impairments
- A need for support in major
life activities (e.g. feeding, shower, travelling, games,
etc)
Jeremy Lee
Jeremy was born in Jun 1976. He has severe cerebral
palsy and moderate intellectual disability. He has
been attending our day activity centre since Sep 1988.
Jeremy is like you and me. He too, has potential that
can be identified and developed. For example, Jeremy
responds very well to music and songs. He will listen
intensely, claps his hands and smiles to himself.
Having weak and small legs, Jeremy used to move around
on his buttocks. The very first goal we set for Jeremy
was to train him to walk. After all these years of
practicing, he is able to walk quite independently.
He can even walk up and down the stairs, which he
cannot do when he first came to COH.
Jeremy has also learnt how to feed himself. However,
he does not chew his food, he simply swallows it.
Thus, we have to cut his food into very small size
while serving his lunch.
Though he does not speak, he communicates with us
through his gestures. Over the years, we have learnt
to understand his temperament and his gestures. When
he’s frustrated, he will make a scream, kick his legs
or hit his head with his palm. Jeremy enjoys taking
a stroll. He ‘tells’ us he wants to take a walk by
standing at the classroom door.
Written by Jeremy’s teacher, Grace
Soh
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