Why Personalised Prevention Matters in Childhood Visual Impairment

Visual impairment in childhood is not limited to reduced vision. It can influence psychological development, educational experience, mobility, social participation and digital engagement throughout life.

Traditional models of care often focus primarily on medical management. While essential, this approach does not always address the broader developmental and social dimensions that shape long-term well-being.

VIPPSTAR was designed to respond to this gap. Rather than treating visual impairment as an isolated clinical condition, the project approaches it as a life-course challenge requiring integrated and personalised strategies.

From early healthcare support to family involvement, and from structured digital tools to serious gaming and coaching-based approaches, VIPPSTAR aims to create a framework that adapts to individual needs and developmental stages. Particular attention is given to body image, identity formation and digital media use - areas that are increasingly relevant for young people growing up in highly connected environments.

By combining clinical expertise, technological innovation and regulatory alignment, including the development of a dedicated regulatory sandbox for digital health services in youth with VI, the project seeks to support healthier, more autonomous transitions into adulthood.