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Not all learners show all of these characteristics. In addition, just because they
display some of the characteristics does not mean they have a learning
disability. Any of these characteristics should be observed over time and
under various circumstances.
"In adulthood, the effects of learning disabilities can affect a wide array of
areas associated with learning and adaptive behaviour. No longer can the
focus of learning disabilities exclusively be on the basic remedial skills
because there are many challenges associated with all the tasks and activities
of adult life and adult responsibilities." 45
At best, basic skills upgrading must share equal focus with other important
areas of functioning such as employment, family relations, emotional issues,
community, and personal adjustment.
Understanding the effects of learning disabilities
on adults
"My disability is not a tool, nor a badge of honour. It gives me a perspective
on life, a sense of reality, a way of understanding. I see the world through a
different lens. I accept my disability, not as a crutch but as a token of reality. I
continue to try harder. Not because some teacher thinks that I need to, nor
because some supervisor says I haven't tried. It is because trying is all I can
control." 46
Possible impacts
Literature on learning disabilities often highlights the social skill inadequacies
that adults face. However practitioners need to be cautious of generalizations.
Adults with learning disabilities are diverse. Practitioners should view each
individual as unique. The impacts of learning disabilities will be both positive
and negative. Consequently, it is difficult to predict how individual adult
learners will experience the impact of their learning disabilities. Adults' life
experiences, resources, supports, and personality traits will affect whether the
impacts are positive or negative.
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