A philosophical critique of United States housing policy for adults with intellectual disabilities

In the United States, as in other developed nations, housing for adults with intellectual disabilities has shifted from institutions to the community. Community services, however, often function in institutional ways. This is true in the United States and internationally. In the United States, the 'Settings Rule' aims to correct the institutional nature of community living by restricting funding to integrated locations with personalized supports. While the policy is well-intentioned, multiple philosophical shortcomings (conceptual, epistemic, moral and political) suggest it will not achieve its desired effects of inclusion and choice. The limitations of US policy and practice have relevance for other jurisdictions working to enhance the experience of community living for adults with intellectual disabilities.