Which term refers to everyday skills used to live independently, including communication, self-care, and decision-making?

• A. Down Syndrome
• B. Adaptive Functioning
• C. Developmental Diversity
• D. Inclusive Education

Answer: (B)

Adaptive functioning describes the everyday skills people use to live on their own. It covers practical tasks like communicating effectively, taking care of personal needs (dressing, grooming, feeding), handling money or budgeting, making decisions, and staying safe. These skills determine how independently someone can function and what kinds of support they might need in daily life. Down Syndrome is a genetic condition, not a term for the daily living skills themselves. Developmental Diversity isn’t the standard term for this concept, and Inclusive Education focuses on teaching all learners in shared settings rather than defining daily living abilities. So the term that fits best is adaptive functioning.