Youth with disabilities in residential care in the community: Perceptions and experiences in the transition period

Youth with disabilities, who accumulate a history of residential care, face additional challenges transitioning to an independent life out of care. They usually do not receive the same family support as their non-institutionalized peers, experiencing multiple adversities that increase the risk of adverse outcomes in their adult lives. This qualitative study focused on understanding the lived experiences of youth with disabilities in residential apartments in the community and their vision for future lives. Through two focus groups, qualitative data were collected in a sample of 12 youth with disabilities aged between 16 and 23 years old (M = 19.7; SD = 1.9). Findings of key themes included: (a) skills development; (b) plans for the future; (c) relationships with direct service professionals; and (d) peer support. From the youth perspective, this study reveals that these residential responses help mitigate the consequences of prolonged institutionalization by promoting a context that supports self-determination and creating new and more positive perspectives for the future. Suggestions are made about future studies and intervention recommendations.