What is the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale Test (WAIS-IV)?

The WAIS-IV test helps to identify the areas that a client with an intellectual disability may either struggle to do or be unable to do altogether. 

This test has four key focus areas:

• Verbal comprehension
• Perceptual reasoning
• Working memory
• Processing speed

What are the benefits to knowing if a client has a MID?

Identifying a client’s intellectual capability can assist with ensuring they are placed into suitable and sustainable employment that is in line with their intellectual and cognitive capabilities.

A Moderate Intellectual Disability Payment (MIDP) can be claimed for clients with an assessed Moderate Intellectual Disability participating in DES-ESS.

Signs your client needs to complete a WAIS-IV test

Below are a few possible signs that may indicate a WAIS-IV test may be required.

Your client may present difficulty with some of the following: 

• Learning – taking in new information 
• Reasoning – thinking about something in a logical, sensible way 
• Abstract thinking – ‘reading between the lines’ and requiring specific and direct instruction 
• Comprehending ideas and concepts – understanding what is being explained 
• Judgement – not knowing the correct action for a situation 
• Problem solving – having difficulty with finding alternatives when something does not go right 
• Memory – recalling information 
• Planning – planning ahead and making decisions 
• Independence – living independently and responsibly