Prevalence of speech and hearing impairment noninstitutionalized mentally retarded adults.

The prevalence of speech and hearing impairment was examinated in a sample of 518 mentally retarded persons currently residing in community residential facilities. The prevalence of speech impairment was found to be approximately 51 percent, while hearing impairment was found in about 15 percent of the sample. Prevalence figures were further delineated by level of mental retardation. Speech impairment showed a moderate correlation with measures of intelligence and personal competence. The results of this study support the need of this population for speech and hearing services.