Agency for Persons with Disabilities
In October 2004, the Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD) became an agency separate from the Department of Children and Families, specifically tasked with serving the needs of Floridians with developmental disabilities. Prior to that time, it existed as the Developmental Disabilities Program.
The APD works in partnership with local communities and private providers to assist people who have developmental disabilities and their families. APD also provides assistance in identifying the needs of people with developmental disabilities for supports and services.
What is a Developmental Disability?
"Developmental Disability" is a broad term that refers to a variety of conditions that interfere with a person's ability to function in everyday activities. Chapter 393, Florida Statutes, defines developmental disabilities as spina bifida, autism, cerebral palsy, Prader-Willi syndrome and mental retardation.
Spina Bifida means a divided backbone or spine. When a person has spina bifida, the spine and the cord inside the spine do not grow the way most spines grow. Normally, the spinal cord carries messages from the brain to other parts of the body, but when a person has spina bifida, the spinal cord does not carry all of the messages to the rest of the body.
Autism is a condition characterized by impairment in social interactions and communication abilities and unusual or restricted ranges of play and interest. Autism results in social isolation and varying degrees of unusual behaviors.
Cerebral Palsy (CP) - "Cerebral" means the brain. "Palsy" means moving of the muscles in a way that the person can't control. It refers to a group of motor disabilities that arise because of injury to the developing brain before or during birth or during the first year of life. These motor disabilities do not get worse over time. Cerebral palsy keeps the brain from telling the rest of the body some of the things it is supposed to do. Despite significant motor impairment, many people with CP have normal intelligence.
Mental Retardation refers to significant limitations in functioning related to sub-average intelligence. People who have mental retardation learn more slowly than other people and might need assistance in areas like communication, self-care, self-direction, health and safety, leisure, work and functional academics. While the term is still clinically correct, "intellectual disability" is becoming the preferred nomenclature.
Prader-Willi Syndrome is an inherited condition. A severe lack of muscle tone and failure to thrive are present in early infancy. Later on, excessive drive to eat usually leads to significant weight problems. Obsessive-compulsive behaviors and difficulty with social interactions are often present. People with Prader-Willi syndrome are usually short with small hands and feet. They typically are mildly mentally retarded.
When and where can a person apply for services?
Application for services can be made at any time by completing the Application for Services form available online at APDF-10-007-application-for-services.pdf and forwarding the application to the APD area office where the applicant lives.