Cognitive Deficits (cont.)

Medical Author:

Georgina Peacock, MD

Medical Editor:

Elizabeth A Finley-Belgrad, MD

Medical Editor:

Mary L Windle, PharmD

Medical Editor:

Cynthia R Ellis, MDr

Medical Editor:

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, Chief Medical Editor

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, is a U.S. board-certified Anatomic Pathologist with subspecialty training in the fields of Experimental and Molecular Pathology. Dr. Stöppler's educational background includes a BA with Highest Distinction from the University of Virginia and an MD from the University of North Carolina. She completed residency training in Anatomic Pathology at Georgetown University followed by subspecialty fellowship training in molecular diagnostics and experimental pathology.

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Support Groups and Counseling

Parenting a child with a cognitive deficit can be emotionally challenging. The time of diagnosis, as well as transitional times, such as beginning school and graduating from high school, can be particularly difficult.

Support groups, such as Families Together, can be useful. Families Together also refers to an in-home social work program and an informational and training program. "The program provides training and information to enable individuals with disabilities, and their parents, family members, guardians, advocates, or other authorized representatives, to participate more effectively in meeting their vocational, independent living, and rehabilitation needs." Contact information may be obtained from each state's department of education or from the Web site.

Respite care is also important so that parents can spend time away from their child and recuperate. Good respite care allows parents to feel confident that their child is being cared for appropriately in their absence.