Public squares and accessibility

ORIGINAL ARTICLE

CARDOSO, Tainah Chinaide ^[1], MARTINS, Luiz Fillipe Ribeiro ^[2]

CARDOSO, Tainah Chinaide. MARTINS, Luiz Fillipe Ribeiro. Public squares and accessibility. Revista Científica Multidisciplinar Núcleo do Conhecimento. Year 10, Ed. 12, Vol. 01, pp. 118-152. December 2025. ISSN: 2448-0959. Access link: https://www.nucleodoconhecimento.com.br/architecture/public-squares, ‎DOI: 10.32749/nucleodoconhecimento.com.br/architecture/public-squares

ABSTRACT

This study was conducted in two public squares in the city of Rio de Janeiro: Praça Antero de Quental, located in the Leblon neighborhood (South Zone), and Praça Saiqui, located in Vila Valqueire (West Zone). The objective was to analyze accessibility for people with disabilities (PwD). The main difficulties encountered by PwD when attempting to access and utilize public squares were observed. Although some accessible paths and equipment exist in Praça Antero de Quental, it is still not fully accessible. In contrast, Praça Saiqui does not offer accessible structures, completely contradicting accessibility standards. The study combined field research with individuals who frequent the squares and a review of academic articles to support the analysis. The collected data demonstrate the need for greater attention from public authorities regarding the adaptation of these spaces, not only to comply with the law but also to create truly inclusive and interactive environments for PwD.

Keywords: Accessibility, PwD, Public squares.

1. INTRODUCTION

Public squares have played a fundamental role in cities since Ancient Greece, where Agoras served as places for gathering, commerce, and debate, according to Strickland (2003). Over time, as cities grew, these squares evolved into multifunctional spaces, meeting the population’s needs for leisure, culture, and socialization, as pointed out by Marx (1980). However, despite this evolution, access to these spaces still faces challenges, especially for people with disabilities.

Inadequate infrastructure and the lack of implementation of public accessibility policies hinder the full use of squares, particularly by those with disabilities. Pacheco (2017) observes that disorderly urban growth and the lack of proper urban planning contribute to social exclusion, making it difficult to create inclusive and accessible spaces. Furthermore, the Brazilian Inclusion Law (Law No. 13,146/2015) still faces execution challenges in practice, such as the lack of adaptation of squares with ramps, tactile paving, and inclusive playground equipment.

Despite legal advancements, cultural and social resistance to the inclusion of people with disabilities persists, which hinders the effective application of accessibility standards. Gomes (2007) points out that a joint effort is necessary to change society’s mindset and ensure that public squares serve all citizens as equally as possible. Therefore, for squares to fulfill their role in social inclusion, it is essential that they be adapted to ensure the full participation of everyone, regardless of their physical and/or mental limitations.

2. THEORETICAL FRAMEWORK

According to Strickland (2003), public squares, which were called Agoras in Ancient Greece, were fundamental spaces for urban life, serving as symbols of access, freedom of expression, and civic participation; in other words, they allowed people to enjoy an active social life.

Over time, as cities expanded and evolved, the role of squares adapted to the needs of society. Marx (1980) highlights that the function of squares varied according to the society using them.

Pacheco (2017), meanwhile, points out that cities are facing difficulties regarding urban planning, as disorderly population growth and the lack of adequate infrastructure create challenges for developing public spaces that meet the needs of all citizens. He states that the use of technology not only enables better urban design but also contributes to social inclusion by improving access to information and ensuring that all citizens, including PwD, have access to public spaces with safety and autonomy. In some squares, as shown in Figure 01, it is possible to observe that partnerships between the public and private sectors can be an effective solution to guarantee accessibility without compromising the population’s well-being.

Figure 01: Accessible space for sports activities showing a partnership between the public and private sectors in Praça Antero de Quental

Brazilian legislation, despite being advanced, still faces challenges in its practical implementation, especially regarding the adaptation of public spaces, such as squares, to ensure that everyone, regardless of their physical conditions, has the right to use them fully and safely. Furthermore, there is cultural and social resistance toward the inclusion of people with disabilities, reflecting the need for a change in society’s mindset, as stated by Gomes (2007).

3. HEALTH AND LEISURE ASPECTS

Accessibility in public squares is essential to ensure that all people, including those with disabilities (PwD), can enjoy the benefits of these spaces. In addition to promoting social inclusion and autonomy, accessible environments directly benefit the physical and mental health of PwD by providing opportunities for leisure, socialization, and well-being. The presence of accessible areas in public spaces allows individuals with different needs to participate actively in urban life, reducing social isolation and strengthening their sense of belonging to the community.

The implementation of adequate infrastructure—such as ramps, tactile paving, accessible sidewalks, braille signage, adapted benches, handrails, and accessible playground equipment—is fundamental to ensuring the functionality of squares and providing a welcoming environment for all. According to Rosa and Gil (2017), well-executed planning makes these locations safer and more inviting for everyone, fostering interaction between PwD and other citizens. Additionally, Gomes (2007) highlights that accessibility in public spaces significantly improves quality of life, enabling full participation in cultural and recreational events, which contributes to a more integrated and egalitarian society.

The practice of outdoor activities also plays an essential role in the health of PwD. Pacheco (2017) emphasizes that the availability of accessible leisure areas encourages physical exercise, which aids in mobility, stress reduction, and improved cardiovascular health. These spaces represent an accessible alternative to gyms and private centers, which are not always prepared to serve people with disabilities. Thus, investing in the accessibility of public squares means expanding leisure opportunities and promoting healthier habits for this segment of the population. Similarly, Lerner (2011) emphasizes that parks and squares should be designed as communal spaces for all people, stimulating citizenship and social cooperation.

The planning of squares must consider both functionality and stability, ensuring that all citizens, including the elderly and PwD, can move with comfort and safety. Ozyavuz (2012) highlights that the choice of materials and the design of spaces have a direct impact on user mobility and experience.

Investing in accessible squares not only promotes social inclusion but also improves the quality of life and well-being of PwD. To ensure that these spaces fulfill their function, it is essential for public authorities to seek ways to guarantee the implementation of effective accessibility policies and monitor compliance with regulations. In doing so, it will be possible to ensure that all citizens equally enjoy the benefits of leisure, contact with nature, and social interaction, strengthening a more just, accessible, and egalitarian society.

4. FINANCIAL ASPECTS

Some people with disabilities (PwD) may experience financial hardships due to the need for daily adaptations, such as specialized transportation, assistive technologies, and specific, personalized equipment. The lack of accessible infrastructure in public spaces amplifies these difficulties, forcing this group to rely on private services—often at a higher cost—to perform basic activities, such as leisure and commuting. Investing in the accessibility of public squares can minimize this impact.

Ozyavuz (2013), Silva, Souza, and Sousa (2017), Rosa and Gil (2017), and Pacheco (2017) point out that accessibility in public spaces is essential for reducing economic and social inequalities. As with the health and leisure aspects, a partnership between the public and private sectors could finance and implement accessible projects in public squares, ensuring that all people, regardless of their physical limitations, can enjoy the same rights and opportunities. Accessible squares represent an effective means of offering leisure, interaction, and quality of life without increasing the living costs of these individuals, thereby guaranteeing their basic rights.

5. LEGAL ASPECTS

Both the Brazilian Law for the Inclusion of Persons with Disabilities (Law No. 13,146/2015) and Decree No. 6,949 of August 25, 2009—which regulates the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities—guarantee accessibility and inclusion in public spaces, ensuring the right to leisure, culture, and social participation under equal conditions. That is, when designing public spaces such as squares, public authorities must provide solutions that eliminate or minimize accessibility barriers, reinforcing that local authorities must promote the active participation of people with disabilities.

Regarding urban furniture and square infrastructure, ABNT NBR 9050 (2020), in the third paragraph of its scope, establishes that accessibility standards aim to provide autonomous, safe, and independent use of public spaces by all people, regardless of age, height, or mobility limitation, and they must be designed so that these individuals can access and use them freely.

Despite the decrees and accessibility standards mentioned above, many public squares still lack adequate infrastructure, some as simple as a well-paved and continuous sidewalk. Figures 02 and 03 show two images of Praça Saiqui where there is no accessibility. The lack of basic infrastructure for accessibility compromises mobility and social participation for PwD, violating their rights and harming their quality of life.

Figure 02: Stones where the continuation of the sidewalk should be at Praça Saiqui

Figure 03: Broken sidewalks and difficult mobility at Praça Saiqui

6. STRUCTURAL ASPECTS

Almeida, Giacomini, and Bortoluzzi (2013) state that the lack of proper urban planning and sufficient infrastructure makes movement unsafe and uncomfortable, especially for people with disabilities. As illustrated in Figures 04, 05, 06, and 07, mobility is directly linked to the movement of people within an urban space.

Figure 04: Access ramps in the middle of the garden bed next to Praça Saiqui

Figure 05: Uneven sidewalk at Praça Saiqui

Figure 06: Uneven access between areas at Praça Saiqui

Figure 07: North access to Praça Antero de Quental showing the lack of tactile paving, handrails, and inadequate slope

Therefore, it was observed that the most common obstacles in public squares include, for example: the absence of sidewalks, their state of deterioration, inadequate dimensions, incorrect positioning of urban furniture, the lack of tactile paving and support handrails, and the absence or incorrect slope of ramps.

These are just a few of the structural problems that make urban spaces not only inaccessible but also unsafe, especially for those with reduced mobility. The lack of accessible infrastructure can result in daily difficulties for people with disabilities, compromising their quality of life and limiting their full participation in society.

This need for more accessible locations is further reinforced by NBR 9050 (2015) and the Statute of the Person with Disabilities (2015), which was created to regulate spaces designed for people with special needs. It highlights the importance of applying these standards to every detail of an urban or residential project. It is of paramount importance that these locations are designed to meet everyone’s needs, ensuring that no one is excluded or faces difficulties accessing these places due to physical or architectural obstacles.

Lerner (2011) emphasizes the importance of rapid and efficient interventions to improve the quality of life in cities, especially regarding accessibility. According to him, urban transformations can occur through simple improvements, such as creating accessible spaces and quick solutions for structural problems, such as sidewalk enhancements. In the context of public squares, a well-planned reassessment of how to integrate these infrastructures into existing spaces can make them more inclusive and functional for everyone. Therefore, it is fundamental that accessibility be treated as a continuous priority in all stages of planning and execution of public works, ensuring that urban spaces meet the needs of the entire population.

7. METHODOLOGY

A comparative study was conducted in the city of Rio de Janeiro in November 2019 across two squares: one possessing some accessibility aspects and the other providing barely any access. Google Forms was utilized as a research tool; a link was generated and distributed via WhatsApp and Facebook platforms for users to respond. Field research was also conducted with both people with and without disabilities. A total of 78 people were interviewed, including thirteen individuals with disabilities and 24 without disabilities, with 21 people at Praça Antero de Quental and twenty people at Praça Saiqui. The questions focused on their opinions regarding public squares for people with disabilities and specifically on the squares that are the subject of this study.

Research results with PwD.
The survey conducted with people with disabilities was answered by thirteen individuals, with the questions and answers presented as shown in Chart 01:

Chart 01: Online form responses regarding playground equipment for PwD in squares

If there were a “yes” response, the respondent would be directed to another question asking which square it was and where it was located. However, there were no “yes” responses to this question. Subsequently, respondents were asked about the need for more squares with accessible playground equipment (Chart 02).

Chart 02: Online form responses regarding the need for more squares with accessible playground equipment for people with physical disabilities, with thirteen “yes” responses

Subsequently, the following question was asked: “How would you summarize your current life when you want to go out to a small square?” For these more descriptive questions, some responses were selected that exemplify the daily lives of people with some form of difficulty or disability:

• Marta, mother of Maria, eight years old: “I take her to the mall, because at the small square, she is unable to play due to adaptation issues.”
• Flávia, 26 years old: “I usually have difficulty moving around, and because of the uneven sidewalks, it presents an obstacle on these occasions.”
• Denis, twelve years old: “I need help getting around and using the equipment, because it isn’t accessible.“

The following question aimed to gauge how the lives of people with special needs (PwD) would be impacted if an accessible square were implemented near their homes. Thus, the next question was: “And how would the implementation of a public square with playground equipment and furniture for PwD change your life?” Similarly, some responses were selected for exemplification.

• Marta, mother of Maria, eight years old: “I think she would be able to socialize better and would also have the opportunity to understand and know what a swing and a seesaw are like.”
• Flávia, 26 years old: “With this implementation, I will be able to enjoy the place better and take my son if I have one in the future.”
• Denis, twelve years old: “Yes, because with adapted playground equipment, I would feel safer.”

• With the aim of better understanding the needs of these individuals, we asked them: “In your opinion, what is essential for a square designed for people with physical disabilities?“

• Marta, mother of Maria, eight years old: “First of all, facilitated access, considering the mobility difficulties that some PwD have. And the creation of new accessible equipment, also allowing for leisure activities.”
• Flávia, 26 years old: “Creation in a public place such as a mall, for example. If an accessible square for PwD were created here in the neighborhood, the playground equipment would probably not be suitable for other children to play on, so my daughter would be isolated while playing. However, if created in a mall, there could be socialization with other children in the same reality without exclusion.”
• Denis, twelve years old: “Playground equipment and various others.”

• Finally, for the questionnaire aimed at people with disabilities, we asked them to provide us with a suggestion.

• Marta, mother of Maria, eight years old: “Access through ramps, paving without many uneven surfaces or obstacles. And a suggestion for equipment is a wheelchair-accessible swing. I watched a report that showed a prototype at a PwD care center, and it was beautiful to see how a simple thing can bring so much joy to those people.”
• Flávia, 26 years old: “I would really like to have a place that is safe. And with various activities and playground equipment to stroll and enjoy a day off. I hope that this can also be available in the West Zone.”

Results of the survey conducted with people without disabilities

Twenty-four people without disabilities were interviewed, and the following questions and answers were obtained:

Chart 03: Online form responses from people without disabilities regarding whether they knew of any square with accessible equipment; of the 24 respondents, only two answered “yes”

As shown in Chart 03, out of 24 respondents, only two stated they knew of a square with accessible playground equipment for PwD. For those who answered “yes,” the following question was asked: “Which square is it and where is it located?” The response received was: “Edmundo Bittencourt Square, Bairro Peixoto, Copacabana.”

In Figure 08, we can observe a section of Edmundo Bittencourt Square that does not correctly comply with all the accessibility standards provided by NBR 9050. Furthermore, no accessible playground equipment for children with disabilities was found.

Figure 08: View of one of the corners of Edmundo Bittencourt Square shows that the square is not accessible

Continuing the survey of people without disabilities, they were asked if they know someone with a physical disability. As shown in Chart 04, eight out of the 24 respondents stated they know a PwD. This leads us to a proportion where one in every three people has an acquaintance with special needs due to physical disability.

Chart 04: Online form responses, where eight out of 24 people state they know someone with a physical disability

Relating to the question of people without disabilities knowing PwDs, we asked if they had ever tried going out with these PwD acquaintances. Chart 05 shows that only five people had this type of experience and came to understand a bit of what the lives and daily routines of these individuals are like, as they describe these events in the subsequent question of the questionnaire.

Chart 05: Online form responses; only five out of the twenty-four respondents had ever tried going out with a PwD acquaintance

The respondents’ reports follow below:

• “It was quite complicated because they were a wheelchair user.”
• “Locomotion was very difficult.”
• “I sat in the chair with him so we could play. But he couldn’t move anywhere on his own.”
• “He only goes out by car; he cannot see, but due to his illness and a lack of movement—difficulty moving, perhaps due to a sedentary lifestyle—he shakes a lot when he walks and then loses his strength.”
• “It’s complicated; irregular sidewalks, lack of ramps, and train stations have no support for the disabled, especially the Marechal Hermes station.”

People without disabilities were also asked if they were aware of the existence of special playground equipment designed for PwDs. Most of the respondents were unaware of the existence of such equipment, as shown in Chart 06.

Chart 06: Online form responses; out of 24 respondents, only ten were aware of the existence of playground equipment for PwD

Based on the previous question, another question was asked, this time inquiring whether the respondents believe there should be more squares with playground equipment and leisure areas designed for people with disabilities.

Chart 07: Online form responses; all respondents agree that there should be more squares with playground equipment for PwD

Finally, the respondents were asked: in your opinion, what is essential for a square designed for people with physical disabilities? A selection of responses follows to exemplify the research results:

• “Playground equipment adapted to them.”
• “Places and playground equipment that allow people with disabilities to participate in any activity that a person without a disability does, and that they do it together.”
• “Accessibility for wheelchair users, such as ramps, equipment (apparatus or playground equipment) with structures where the wheelchair fits safely (grab bars), and also identifications (Braille alphabet) for the visually impaired.”

• também identificações (alfabeto em braile) para os deficientes visuais.”

• “Everything that brings inclusion.”
• “Access ramps and safety.”
• “Accessibility so they can move around and adapted equipment.”
• “I believe everyone should have the right to citizenship, health, and services that currently involve too much bureaucracy, and people cannot afford essential things like physical therapy, etc.”
• “Equipment with appropriate playground equipment and facilities to move around with ease and safety; having responsible people to assist at the square.”
• “In addition to the playground equipment, ramps with handrails.”
• “Adapted playground equipment, because the ones we have in squares are not adapted for these people with difficulties.”

Results of the survey on Antero de Quental Square in Leblon – with 21 people:

For the survey conducted at Antero de Quental Square, 21 people were interviewed, and the following questions and answers were obtained:

Chart 08: Online form responses; three people do not consider the square safe, compared to eighteen who do consider it safe

As shown in Chart 08, out of 21 respondents, eighteen believe the square is safe.

Chart 09: Online form responses; all twenty-one respondents agree that it is an accessible location

Since the research theme is accessibility, the respondents were asked if they consider the square accessible; as shown in Chart 09, all of them answered “yes,” but when asked how the square could be improved, we obtained the following responses:

• “Poor maintenance; the street market turns the square into a mess.”
• “Benches should be bolted down so they don’t break or get stolen. It is poorly maintained.”
• “More nighttime security.”
• “It is very deserted; you feel vulnerable. It needs tactile paving and more access.”
• “Lighting, especially near the playground equipment.”
• “It should be fenced to improve security.”
• “Better maintenance.”

As can be observed, although this square is well-maintained, users still do not believe it is good enough for the standards of the social class present there.

Chart 10: Online form responses; out of the respondents, sixteen were unaware of the existence of playground equipment for PwDs

Through Chart 10, it is possible to better understand the public’s level of knowledge regarding furniture for PwDs, with an emphasis on children’s needs; only five of them knew that this type of equipment exists, three of whom are architecture students and one a physical education teacher, while the others had no idea.

Chart 11: Online form responses; among all respondents, none know of squares with specific equipment for children with disabilities

Seeking to find locations with equipment for PwDs, the respondents were asked if they knew of other places with this type of furniture, and as shown in Chart 11, all responses were negative. Therefore, it was concluded that there is a lack of knowledge among the general public regarding locations where PwDs can have this type of free and open access. Consequently, one more question was asked to the respondents: whether they believe there should be more public squares designed for PwDs, as shown in Chart 12; all the responses were “yes.”

Chart 12: Online form response; 100% of the people responded that there should be more squares for PwDs

In your opinion, what is essential in an accessible square?

• “Not having many obstacles, paths with protective handrails.”
• “No fences.”
• “Coverage with playground equipment, with a children’s access area for all types of children.”
• “Playground equipment, a safe place, bars, more signage.”
• “Restrooms, accessibility, security.”
• “Access ramps.”

It was observed that the square is safer thanks to the presence of the Leblon police force, a government initiative in partnership with the Rio de Janeiro Military Police that maintains order; additionally, the presence and movement of elderly wheelchair users with their caregivers were noted.

Results of the survey conducted at Saiqui Square in Vila Valqueire – with twenty people:

For the survey conducted at Saiqui Square, twenty people were interviewed, and the following questions and answers were obtained:

Chart 13: Online form responses; three respondents do not consider the square safe

As shown in Chart 13, out of the twenty people interviewed, seventeen believe the square is safe.

People were questioned about the reasons for not feeling safe, and all responses pointed to the need for more policing and better nighttime lighting, mentioning that there are many muggings in the region; in other words, despite having a police post, other measures must be adopted to make the location safer.

Chart 14: Online form responses; only two people consider the square accessible

Since the research theme is accessibility, the respondents were asked if they consider the square accessible; as shown in Chart 14, all of them said “yes,” but when asked how the square could be improved, we obtained the following responses:

• “Fewer detours, more trash cans, more ramps.”
• “Security, access.”
• “Leveling, preservation.”
• “The square needs a renovation; many things are broken.”
• “A restoration could be done to improve access.”

As can be observed, besides the square being poorly maintained, users feel the need for basic elements—such as trash cans, access points, and security—simple things that would make the location more attractive.

Chart 15: Online form responses; four of the respondents were aware of the existence of playground equipment for PwDs

Through Chart 15, it is possible to better understand the public’s level of knowledge regarding furniture for PwDs, with an emphasis on children’s needs; only four of them knew that this type of equipment exists.

Chart 16: Online form responses; none of the respondents claimed to know of a square with playground equipment for PwDs

Chart 16 shows that none of the respondents know of a place that has playground equipment for PwDs, and Chart 17 shows that all of them believe that this type of equipment should indeed exist.

Chart 17: Online form responses; everyone believes there should be more squares for PwDs

To conclude, the respondents were asked: in your opinion, what is essential in an accessible square? We obtained the following responses:

• “Accessibility and security.”
• “Tactile paving, ramps, and playground equipment.”
• “The same activities as for people without disabilities.”
• “More playground equipment, adapted and leveled sidewalks, and better lighting.”
• “Security, accessibility, and a group of people with disabilities who gather to practice sports.”
• “Accessibility, adapted playground equipment, restrooms, and trash cans.”
• “That people are able to move through it without obstacles.”
• “A square where people can move around without difficulty.”

Through observation, analysis, and comparison between the two squares under study, a parallel was drawn between the guidelines of existing accessibility regulations and the reality of these squares, which should serve as locations for inclusion and accessible leisure for all. However, at Antero de Quental Square, located in the city’s South Zone, it is noted that these standards are applied more effectively. On the other hand, in Vila Valqueire, located in the North Zone—where the population has limited access to public leisure—a lack of attention from both public authorities and the population can be observed. Nevertheless, in both cases, the population is unaware of the existence of playground equipment for PwDs in public squares, which demonstrates how society lacks information on this subject and how critical this issue is; in all surveys, people believe that this type of equipment should indeed exist.

Consequently, it is believed that there is, first and foremost, a need to raise public awareness regarding accessibility: what it is, what the equipment, signage, and tactile paving are, the purpose of safety bars in public squares, how to use them, how to care for the equipment, and the benefits they bring to the population. When citizens are better informed about this subject, it is believed there will be greater cooperation on their part; thus, concurrently, public authorities must make improvements to the squares, ensuring that accessibility is fully incorporated.

8. FINAL CONSIDERATIONS

Through observation, analysis, and comparison between the two squares under study, it was found that in the city’s South Zone, there was better planning of the square’s structure compared to the West Zone, where the square is severely damaged. However, it was in the West Zone where a higher utilization of the square was noted; nonetheless, both require greater attention regarding accessibility.

It was also identified that a large portion of the population is unaware of the difficulties faced by PwDs, which hinders and slows down the process of creating accessible environments. From this, an important reflection emerges: if programs and equipment for the elderly already exist in many public squares in Rio de Janeiro, why is there still not the same attention focused on installing accessible equipment and playgrounds for people with disabilities? If public spaces are a right for everyone, why are there still no projects that properly integrate people with disabilities into public squares? And why is this subject still not discussed openly?

For the transformation of cities and public spaces to be effective, more than just a theoretical understanding of accessibility is required. True change will occur when all citizens know and recognize that, regardless of mobility conditions, everyone must have the same rights to use public spaces. Building an accessible square goes beyond inclusive theory; it is about ensuring that everyone, without exception, can participate fully in urban life, contributing to a more integral and just environment. This requires not only compliance with laws and standards but also a cultural shift, where inclusion and accessibility are seen as fundamental priorities in urban planning.

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AUTHOR INFORMATION

^[1] Associate Degree in Interior Design (UVA), Technician in Interior Design (Senac). ORCID: 0009-0008-8887-1260. Lattes Curriculum: http://lattes.cnpq.br/5982222011984791.

^[2] Bachelor of Architecture and Urbanism (UNISUAM) and B.A. in Languages and Literature – Portuguese/Literature (Estácio). ORCID: 0009-0000-3057-3369.

Authors’ Contribution:

Tainah Chinaide Cardoso: Conception, planning, analysis, interpretation, and drafting of the work, as well as final interpretation and writing.

Luiz Fillipe Ribeiro Martins: Conception, planning, analysis, interpretation, and drafting of the work, as well as final interpretation and writing.

MATERIAL INFORMATION

Conflict of Interest:

There is no conflict of interest.

Acknowledgments and Funding:

There is no funding.

Note:

The authors utilized Artificial Intelligence tools—specifically LanguageTool, Grammarly, Clarice.ai, Gemini, and Word extensions—as well as the website sinônimos.com (unidentified versions across platforms) to achieve more assertive writing through spelling and grammar correction, and to find vocabulary that assisted in avoiding redundancy and repetition. However, all content searching and quality assessment of the referenced articles were conducted by the authors themselves.

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Publication History:

Received: January 24, 2025.

Peer-reviewed: May 26, 2025.

Edited version approved by the authors: November 14, 2025.