Housing Models for People With Intellectual Disabilities: A Systematic Review of Living Alternatives

Access to housing and support needs for people with intellectual disabilities, according to their preferences, is hampered by multiple barriers, including a lack of alternatives to traditional accommodation models, a lack of public support to access them and insufficient support staff. This study consists of a systematised literature review on housing and living alternatives for people with intellectual disabilities. The review was carried out using the SALSA Framework, structured into four phases: Search, Appraisal, Synthesis and Analysis. Finally, 40 articles were selected. The results highlight supervised group homes, shared homes with some level of staff support, community homes and individual homes as types of housing. Self‐determination, personal development, physical, emotional and material well‐being, as well as interpersonal relationships and rights are among the essential aspects to be taken into account when considering living arrangements. The studies emphasise the importance of implementing housing alternatives that promote independent life projects desired and chosen by the people with intellectual disabilities themselves. The findings indicate a need for more in‐depth research into the indicators, factors and dimensions linked to the implementation of accommodations well suited for people with intellectual disabilities. These findings may inform future policy development in inclusive housing for people with intellectual disabilities.