The Influence of Residence Type on Personal Outcomes
Abstract Over the last 5 decades, the state institution census has decreased 85% in the United States. Despite these radical shifts away from institutionalization, people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) continue to struggle to be meaningfully included in the community. For these reasons, the aim of this study was to explore if and how residence type affects attainment of quality of life outcomes of people with IDD in the United States. To do so, we analyzed Personal Outcome Measures® interviews from approximately 1,350 people with IDD. Findings suggest much of what has historically been considered deinstitutionalization of people with IDD is transinstitutionalization, particularly with provider-owned or -operated settings. A systemic overhaul is needed to create an effective community infrastructure.