Housing Design and Modifications for Individuals With Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities and Complex Behavioral Needs: Scoping Review

Background Behavioral challenges exhibited by individuals with IDD can signal a poor person-environment relationship. There remains limited understanding about the physical characteristics of successful housing for this population. This article summarizes research on housing design for individuals with IDD who engage in behaviors that challenge. Specific Aims Original, peer-reviewed research on the physical environment of housing was reviewed to determine the characteristics that can be modified to meet the needs of individuals with IDD who engage in behaviors that challenge. Method Electronic databases and reference lists of relevant publications were searched for peer reviewed empirical research related to housing design for behaviors that challenge. Two reviewers independently applied inclusion criteria to identify studies. Content analysis identified housing features. Findings Fourteen studies were identified that described inadequate and successful housing characteristics. Elements such as location, layout, safety, stimulation, and homelikeness were reported to contribute to successful housing. Discussion Design of the physical environment has important policy and practice implications for supported housing that addresses behaviors that challenge. The development of design tools, guidelines, and personalized housing for this population is discussed.