Regresar

Correction-compensation in the deafblind children with motor alterations through adapted physical activities

Abstract:

Introduction: Deafblindness is a double disability that involves problems in the auditory and visual field, and causes unique communicative and motor problems. So, it is necessary to draw special and customised educational-teaching strategies. Objective: To propose adapted physical activities as part of the occupational therapy for the correction-compensation of motor alterations presented in deafblind children studying in “Mariana de Jesus” Special Institute. Methods: The sample consisted of 20 children in the ages from 6 to10 years old with visual and auditory problems caused by different diseases. The investigation began with a diagnosis to 11 specialists whom were directly involved in the educational process. The research variables were defined prior to the implementation of the strategy. There were designed ten games adapted to the individualities and needs of the sample studied, and those were used during the school year 2016-2017. Results: With the implementation of the 7 motor tests before and after the implementation of the improvement, significant breakthroughs in the motor skills of the subjects were achieved, and with it an increase in the percentage of subjects evaluated as well, as demonstrated statistically when calculating the proportions for related samples. Conclusions: The adapted physical activities, within playful strategies as occupational therapy, improve the corrective-compensative work and the motor abilities of deafblind children. These strategies should be developed under the principles of a humanist and inclusive ethics and on the basis of a personalized attention.