Functional Vision and Wellbeing Among Children with Cerebral Visual Impairment in Abuja Schools

Cerebral visual impairment (CVI) is now recognized as the leading cause of visual impairment in children in high-income countries, and its prevalence in low- and middle-income countries is increasingly acknowledged but poorly quantified. Children with CVI exhibit a distinct visual profile that is often misunderstood as intellectual disability, and targeted optometric intervention can significantly improve their functional visual outcomes. This study assesses functional vision and wellbeing in children with cerebral visual impairment attending special needs schools in Abuja, FCT, North Central Nigeria. A cross-sectional descriptive design will be employed, recruiting 80 children aged 5 to 15 years with documented neurological diagnoses associated with CVI. Functional vision will be assessed using the CVI Range assessment tool, visual-motor integration tests, and the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory. Caregiver interviews will document daily visual challenges, school accommodations, and use of rehabilitative services. Data analysis will involve descriptive statistics and Spearman correlation. The study anticipates that many children will demonstrate significant functional visual deficits that are not currently accommodated in their school environments. Findings will be submitted to the FCT education authority and NCEF to advocate for CVI-specific assessment tools and teacher training. This research addresses a neglected dimension of pediatric optometry in Nigeria's North Central zone. Keywords: cerebral visual impairment, functional vision, children, Abuja, special needs