How do congenital visual impairments differ from adventitious impairments?

Congenital impairments refer to visual disabilities that are present at birth and can result from genetic factors, developmental issues during pregnancy, or complications during childbirth. These impairments are inherent from the start of an individual’s life. In contrast, adventitious impairments develop later, typically as a result of trauma, illness, or conditions that occur after birth, such as accidents or diseases that impact vision.

This distinction is significant because it influences how each type of impairment affects individuals. For example, those with congenital visual impairments may have adapted to their environment differently compared to individuals who acquired visual impairments later in life. The timing of the impairment can also dictate the interventions, educational resources, and support systems needed for the individual. Overall, understanding this difference is crucial for effective assessment and support in educational settings, as the needs of these two groups can be quite different.