Research highlights the ongoing potential for functional vision improvement

For many young people with cerebral visual impairment (CVI), challenges with vision are a lifelong reality. But research from InFocus suggests that functional vision—the ability to use sight effectively in everyday life—can continue to improve well into adolescence and young adulthood.

This study, published in June 2024 and carried out in partnership with Plymouth Marjon University, provides evidence that targeted interventions at InFocus can make a significant difference for students with CVI, even beyond the traditionally recognised “sensitive period” of neuroplasticity in early childhood.

A new hope for students with CVI

CVI is the leading cause of childhood visual impairment in the UK, affecting how the brain processes visual information. Unlike eye-based vision issues, CVI stems from neurological differences or injury, making interventions particularly complex. Until recently, many believed that improvements in functional vision were limited to early childhood. However, this study challenges that assumption.

The research involved a five-year review of 24 students, aged 9 to 25, who attended InFocus when it was a school and college. The study focused on the implementation of the CVI Range—a structured assessment and intervention approach. Results showed a steady improvement in functional vision over time, with an average yearly increase in CVI Range scores. This means that with the right support, young people with CVI can continue developing their ability to use vision in meaningful ways, from recognising objects to navigating their environment with more confidence.

The power of a supportive learning environment

One key factor behind these positive outcomes is InFocus’ multidisciplinary approach. Students receive individualised support from teachers of the visually impaired, therapists, mobility specialists, and other professionals. The structured environment ensures that interventions are tailored to each student’s unique needs, helping them maximise their visual potential.

For students in the early stages of CVI, the focus is on increasing visual engagement—helping them learn to focus on and respond to simple objects. As they progress, they develop the ability to use vision more purposefully, from reaching for objects to engaging with visual learning materials. Finally, advanced interventions support students in refining their visual cognitive skills, enabling greater independence in everyday activities.

What this means for the future of CVI support

These findings reinforce the importance of continuing visual habilitation beyond childhood. They suggest that educational and therapeutic interventions should not be limited to young children but should remain a priority for adolescents and young adults with CVI. This could have significant implications for policy and funding decisions, emphasising the need for sustained support in specialist education settings.

The research also highlights the importance of personalising interventions. Factors such as co-existing conditions, including nystagmus (a condition affecting eye movement), influenced how much students improved. Understanding these individual differences will help refine future approaches to supporting young people with CVI.

A message of optimism

For families and educators supporting young people with CVI, this study offers a message of optimism. Vision is not necessarily a fixed ability, and with the right strategies, young people may continue to make meaningful progress. It underscores the invaluable role of specialist colleges like InFocus and tailored interventions in empowering students to reach their full potential.

At InFocus, this research reaffirms our commitment to providing evidence-based, individualised support for young people with visual impairment and complex needs. By continuing to innovate and adapt our approaches, we can help more students gain confidence in using their vision, unlocking new opportunities for independence and engagement with the world around them.

For more information on how InFocus supports young people with CVI, or to explore our specialist education and therapy programmes, visit our dedicated CVI pages or read through our blog posts for more articles.

The full research article is available here. Please note that access requires a subscription to the journal.