What counts as a developmental disability in Virginia?
A plain-language answer for families and support coordinators in Virginia, with the official sources it is based on.
The short answer
Under Virginia law, a developmental disability is a severe, chronic disability caused by a mental or physical impairment, or both, that is not a sole diagnosis of mental illness. It must appear before age 22, be likely to continue indefinitely, cause substantial functional limitations in three or more major life areas, and call for lifelong or extended supports that are individually planned and coordinated.
The major life areas in the definition
The law looks for substantial functional limitations in at least three of these seven areas:
- Self-care
- Receptive and expressive language
- Learning
- Mobility
- Self-direction
- Capacity for independent living
- Economic self-sufficiency
Why the definition matters
A diagnosis of developmental disability under this definition is one of the requirements for being placed on Virginia’s DD Waivers waiting list. A mental illness diagnosis on its own does not meet it.
Your local Community Services Board is the first step for being screened and assessed for DD waiver services.
What this means at At Home Family Services
At Home Family Services serves adults 18 and older with a developmental disorder diagnosis whose support needs our home can meet. We do not diagnose or decide waiver eligibility; we confirm fit and coverage on a screening call.
Sources
- Code of Virginia § 37.2-100, Definitions
- 12VAC30-122-90, Waiting list, criteria and slot assignment
- Virginia DBHDS: Waiver information for individuals and families
Sources reviewed November 2, 2026. Rules and programs change, so confirm current details with your Community Services Board or support coordinator. This page is general information, not legal or benefits advice.