The estimated number of individuals with I/DD in Hawai‘i is calculated using the population estimate and the prevalence of I/DD. According to the U.S. Census Bureau for July 1, 2017, the estimated population for Hawai‘i was 1,427,538. Based on the National Health Interview Survey in 1994 and 1995, the prevalence of I/DD is 1.49% (Larson SA, Lakin KC, Anderson L, Kwak N. Lee JH, Anderson D, 2001). For Hawai‘i the estimated number of persons with I/DD is 21,270.

​

According to Public Law 106-402 – Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act of 2000. (A) IN GENERAL.—the term “developmental disability” means a severe, chronic disability of an individual that:

​

1. is attributable to a mental or physical impairment or combination of mental and physical impairments;

2. is manifested before the individual attains age 22; 

3. is likely to continue indefinitely; 

4. results in substantial functional limitations in 3 or more of the following areas of major life activity:  

   1. Self-care. 

   2. Receptive and expressive language. 

   3. Learning. 

   4. Mobility. 

   5. Self-direction. 

   6. Capacity for independent living. 

   7. Economic self-sufficiency; and 

5. reflects the individual’s need for a combination and sequence of special, interdisciplinary, or generic services, and assistance for a life time.