Use of language- good and bad

A few months ago, a prominent commentator referred to our current president as a "retard". This caused an uproar among people who have children with special needs and others who for one reason or another don't have the full development that others are blessed to have.

I understand that one should not use words like "retard" and "fa!@#$%ot" in public discourse because it's offensive.

The literal definition of retard means to slow or impede progress. However, when used to describe a person who has developmental disabilities, it's offensive and rude.


My question is: What are the acceptable alternatives? Will these alternatives convey the meaning of developmental disabilities without diluting the true nature of the disability?

Special Needs, Extra Attention, high maintenance? High Maintenance is a euphemism.

Thank you.