For an adult with intellectual disabilities, finding the right place to live is about more than just housing, it’s about creating a home that supports living as independently as possible, while feeling safe, connected, and supported.
At Delta Housing Be Mine Society, we understand how to plan to move out of home - in fact, 12 DHBMS members did it not long ago - and we know it can feel overwhelming. There are many options to consider, and every individual has unique needs, preferences, and goals.
The good news? There’s no one “right” path. Inclusive housing is about finding what works best for each person—and that can look very different from one individual to the next.
This guide is designed to introduce a range of inclusive housing options and help you start thinking about what might be the right fit for you or your loved one.
What Is Inclusive Housing?
Inclusive housing means creating living arrangements that are flexible, supportive, and adaptable. For an adult with intellectual disabilities, this could mean:
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Having access to the right level of support
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Living in a community where they feel included
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Building independence at their own pace
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Choosing a home that reflects their preferences and lifestyle
Exploring Inclusive Housing Options
There are many different ways to approach housing. Below are some of the most common options to consider as you begin planning.
Rental Options
Renting can be a flexible and accessible way to begin living as independently as possible and a starting point for those exploring independence, especially when combined with the right supports. Renting options may include:
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A suite in a relative’s home which offers independence while staying close to family support, or
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A rental unit, such as an apartment, basement suite, or house in the community
Room and Board
Room and board provides a more structured and supportive environment, which may be helpful for individuals who benefit from consistent daily support. This option typically includes both housing and meals and can take place in a relative’s home or someone else’s home.
Shared Living
Shared living focuses on integrating support into a home environment.Shared living can offer a balance between independence and day-to-day support, often fostering strong, meaningful relationships. There are two main Shared Living Models:
Home Ownership
For some families, home ownership is part of a long-term plan for stability and security. Home ownership can provide greater control and long-term planning opportunities, but it often requires careful financial and legal consideration.
Options may include:
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Owning a house, condominium, or mobile home
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Ownership by a parent, sibling, or family member
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Shared ownership with others
Living with Roommates
Living with others can support both independence and community-building, while also sharing living costs. Whether living with one roommate or many, this option also offers the day to day companionship that your loved ones are used to with living at home.
Other Housing Options
There are also alternative models that may be a good fit depending on availability and preference. These options often emphasize affordability, inclusion, and community connection.
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Subsidized housing – Through BC Housing or other organizations
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Housing co-operatives – Where members share responsibility and decision-making
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Cohousing communities – Where individuals have private homes but share common spaces
How to Choose the Right Path for Your Loved One
Exploring housing options is an important step toward living as independently as possible. It’s okay if the process takes time, and it’s okay to try different options along the way. When thinking about how to plan to move out of home, it can help to start with a few key questions:
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What level of independence feels right?
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What kind of support is needed day-to-day?
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What type of living environment feels most comfortable?
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What financial resources are available?
Understanding your family’s resources and options is the best way to build a plan all together; one that goes beyond just moving out and focuses on living as independently as possible with the right supports, and community, in place for the long term.
Which housing options have you considered as your top choices?
