Living in Localities: The Factors That Influence the Social Inclusion in Neighborhoods of Adults With Intellectual Disability. A Systematic Scoping Review

Abstract

Adults with intellectual disability (ID) are now more likely to live in ordinary localities. However, this does not always equate with engagement, leading to forming new relationships and a sense of connection. This systematic scoping review examined research on social inclusion in neighborhoods for adults with ID, synthesizing 94 peer-reviewed studies published between 2000 and 2020. The characteristics of neighborhoods that foster inclusion include: richness of opportunities in localities, public acceptance, positive neighboring, and multidimensional accessibility. Social inclusion in neighborhoods is complex, with a range of other influencing factors also identified. Recommendations for further research and implications for practice are discussed to support individuals to actively engage locally and to enhance their informal social networks.