The experience of living in community-based housing for people with disability and complex support needs: a qualitative systematic review using an ecological perspective.

PURPOSE: This systematic review aimed to identify, appraise, and synthesise qualitative research relating to the experience of people with disability and complex support needs (aged 18-65) living in community-based housing and the factors that influence these experiences.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

We adopted an ecological perspective using Bronfenbrenner's bioecological model (2005) to frame our interpretive analysis. Seventeen articles were identified and selected, detailing experiences from the perspectives of people with disability, family members, and support staff.

RESULTS

Our qualitative synthesis resulted in a conceptual framework of twelve themes which describe the bidirectional relationship between an individual and their environment resulting in their experience of community-based housing. The themes of choice and control, safety and security, and inclusion were foundational to achieve positive outcomes within the home including a sense of identity, belonging and health and well-being. Five environmental themes and personal characteristics influenced these experiences, with environmental themes relating to support staff, societal attitudes, disability service organisations, and the physical structure of home playing a significant role in shaping experiences of community-based housing.

CONCLUSIONS

Individualised housing and housing which embraced a rights-based approach of choice, control, and inclusion most often resulted in positive experiences for people with disability.