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ORCID
https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9843-2626
Access Type
Open Access Thesis
Document Type
thesis
Degree Program
Architecture
Degree Type
Master of Architecture (M.Arch.)
Year Degree Awarded
2021
Month Degree Awarded
May
Abstract
While some adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are high functioning and go on to lead successful and independent lives, many still face the difficult challenge of finding and securing adequate housing. As our economy changes and buying a house or renting an apartment become less and less affordable, many adults with ASD have to continue living with their aging parents. Government funding for adults with autism is limited and group homes are scarce and are typically poor in quality. Additionally, with ASD steadily increasing in prevalence, these options are becoming even more limited. Adults with ASD and their families are then confronted with the extreme stress of finding housing with limited budgets, quality, and time. This thesis proposes a model living community for adults with ASD that promotes connection to the larger community, nature, and builds life success through its architecture and programming. Set in Salem, Massachusetts, this model community was developed through analysis of recent literature on the topic of autism-friendly design, as well as interviews with professionals in field and parents of adult children with ASD. This thesis seeks to realize a model living community for adults with ASD and how connections and relationships can be strengthened between residents and the city of Salem, so that these adults not only have housing but also better access to critical resources and improved quality of life.
DOI
https://doi.org/10.7275/22714169.0
First Advisor
Erika Zekos
Recommended Citation
Pearce, Tara, "Housing for Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): Creating an Integrated Living Community in Salem, MA" (2021). Masters Theses. 1067.
https://doi.org/10.7275/22714169.0
https://scholarworks.umass.edu/masters_theses_2/1067