Mental retardation is a term that has been widely used to describe people with less than average intelligence and behavior problems. However, the term "retarded" is sometimes viewed as derogatory and other terms such as mentally handicapped, disabled, or challenged are often used. Regardless, all these terms refer to the same syndrome of less than average intellectual ability caused by a biological problem leading to a brain defect. This problem is related to genetic abnormalities (inherited) or difficulties early in development (before or after birth), which means that mental retardation in older adults is usually a continuation of changes that began earlier in life.

The following are questions you can ask your health care provider concerning mental retardation:

1. Is there new research concerning mental retardation?
2. Is mental retardation common in old age?
3. Is it true that people with Downs Syndrome are more likely to become demented?
4. What challenges does mental retardation present for older people?
5. What is the best living situation for a mentally retarded person?
6. What should the caregiver of a mentally retarded older adult expect to plan for as the patient physically ages?