Helping persons with Usher syndrome type II adapt to deafblindness: An intervention program centered on managing personal goals

Abstract

Difficulties adapting to changes in Usher syndrome type II leading to deafblindness are well known. One of the factors that may affect the adaptation process is the ability to redirect one’s life and set new goals for oneself. This article presents the results of a group intervention program centered on managing personal goals. The results of a double-multivariate repeated-measures multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) point to a significant partial effect on the variable “meaning of life,” while no significant change was found for the feeling of “serenity,” “self-determination,” and the “ability to set, plan, and pursue a goal.” The results of this pilot project warrant continuing the research since the intervention seems to have a positive impact on psychological well-being.