Brazil expands specialized care for autistic and deaf‑blind individuals

The Casa do Autista in Maceió, Brazil, offers multidisciplinary treatment for children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder, including neuropediatrics, psychiatry, psychology, speech therapy, occupational therapy, physiotherapy, nutrition and social assistance. Access is coordinated through the municipal health secretariat, requiring documentation such as ID, SUS card, proof of residence, medical referral and responsible‑party paperwork. Cases are evaluated and prioritized for families without existing public care, with services provided gradually as capacity allows.

In Belém, Pará, the Centro Integrado de Inclusão e Reabilitação (CIIR) supports people who are deaf‑blind, exemplified by Josias Silva, who gained autonomy to use ride‑hailing apps, navigate public spaces and learn tactile sign language and Braille. The centre delivers psychotherapies, physical education, orientation‑mobility training, and multidisciplinary support from physiotherapists, occupational therapists, speech‑language pathologists, psychologists, social workers, educators and mobility specialists. The program aims to foster independence, reduce social isolation and improve quality of life for deaf‑blind individuals and their families.