The transition from family home to alternative living arrangements: experiences of adults with intellectual disabilities and their family members

Background
It is well documented that many adults with intellectual disabilities live with ageing parents, often without concrete plans for transitioning to alternative living arrangements. Little is known about transition experiences once they occur. This study explores the experiences of adults with intellectual disabilities and their family members of this transition through a relational lens.

Method
Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 25 people: 8 adults with intellectual disabilities, 13 parents, and 4 siblings.

Results
Three themes were constructed from the data: ‘Gaining independence and letting go’, ‘negotiating unfamiliar relationships’ and ‘social inclusion and making new connections.’

Conclusion
Adults with intellectual disabilities discussed numerous benefits associated with moving out of the family home, including increased autonomy and opportunities for new relationships. Family members also described benefits of the transition, but some grappled with needing to ‘let go’ whilst at the same time retaining some degree of control over their family members’ lives.