Have things changed for people with developmental disabilities?

Things have changed for people with mental challenges (the term developmental disabilities typically only applies to young children who are still in the early states of development, and by age eight other classifications are needed if differences are still noted), but prejudices still exist in our society toward this group.
Early in the story, Charlie knows that he isn't smart. Where does this come from? Undoubtedly, Charlie has faced daily discrimination (like that we see from his factory workers) and understands that he isn't valued as much as others. This is why he works so hard to learn to read and spell well.
People with mental challenges still face discrimination, but fortunately there are new measures in place to help, both legally and socially. IDEA is a legal safeguard that provides special education services to students ages 3-21. Students can qualify for an IEP or a 504 plan based on special needs and circumstances. Employers are legally unable to discriminate based on many factors as long as a person is capable of performing a job. Socially, there is a growing movement of tolerance and acceptance for people who show signs of mental challenges. Many colleges are starting programs for the mentally challenged to provide additional skills in self-care and independent living. (Check out the LIFE program at Clemson University for a good example.) There is a growing population of parents who intentionally seek to adopt children with special needs, and often the government provides monetary support in these efforts.
Much progress has been made since the days of Flowers for Algernon, but there is still a long way to go before those with mental challenges are accepted and valued in our society to the degree that should be the standard.