Intervenções para crianças com deficiência visual: uma revisão de literatura

Abstract

Introduction: Visual Impairment (VI) refers to alterations in the visual system that may occur in the eyes, optic pathways, or brain areas responsible for vision, potentially resulting in ocular visual impairment (OVI), cerebral/cortical visual impairment (CVI), or both. Classified from mild to blindness according to visual acuity, VI may affect both distance and near vision. Interdisciplinary care is essential; however, there is a shortage of studies analyzing specific therapeutic interventions aimed at the rehabilitation of children with different types of VI, especially beyond CVI. Objective: This study aims to review the literature on visual habilitation and rehabilitation interventions in children with VI, seeking to identify the most effective approaches to improve visual function and/or functional vision. Method: This is a literature review conducted through a search in the PubMed database, with no language restrictions. Studies addressing visual habilitation or rehabilitation interventions in children and adolescents aged 0 to 18 years with VI were included, provided they reported improvements in visual functions and/or functional vision. Studies involving exclusively medical interventions (surgery, laser, or medication), lacking a clear description of the intervention, focusing solely on motor outcomes, or involving a multidisciplinary team without a visual stimulation component were excluded. Results: The literature search yielded a total of 4,455 articles. After screening titles and abstracts, 4,434 were excluded for not meeting inclusion criteria. Full-text articles were assessed for eligibility. After evaluating 21 articles, 6 were excluded, resulting in 15 studies meeting the criteria and included in this review. The interventions encompassed visual stimulation programs, visual habilitation/task or environmental adaptations, and vision skill training. The studies varied in design, population, and outcomes, limiting direct comparisons. Conclusion: Despite limited robust evidence, studies indicate that visual stimulation, telerehabilitation, and adaptive games may enhance visual functions, while multisensory programs and environmental adaptations promote greater independence and social participation. However, the low level of evidence highlights the need for controlled clinical trials with objective measures and better control of variables.