Deinstitutionalisation of persons with intellectual disabilities: A review of Australian studies

Abstract

This paper provides a quantitative review of Australian studies on deinstitution-alisation and community living for persons with intellectual disabilities. Thirteen studies from eight separate projects were identified from a comprehensive literature search. Studies were included if they were conducted in Australia and focused on the effects of relocating persons from institutions to community-based residences, involved a comparison of institutional versus community-based services, or investigated the community adjustment of people who had once lived in an institution. Each study was examined to ascertain details on the settings, participants, methodology, and results. Community-based placements were associated with increased adaptive behaviour, greater community participation, and improved contact with family and friends. There was little or no change in problem behaviour, health, or mortality. The results are consistent with similar reviews from studies conducted in the USA and UK and support the development of community-based services for persons with intellectual disability. However, limitations in the Australian database are acknowledged and discussed.