An integrated setting is defined as one that “enables individuals with disabilities to interact with nondisabled persons to the fullest extent possible. Integrated settings are those that provide individuals with disabilities opportunities to live, work and receive service in the greater community, like individuals without disabilities,

Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) integration mandate obligates states to:

• Furnish supports and services to individuals with disabilities in integrated settings that offer choices and opportunities to live, work, and participate in community activities along with individuals without disabilities at times and frequencies of the person’s choosing.
• Afford choice in their activities of daily life and the opportunity to interact with nondisabled persons to the fullest extent possible.
• Provide individuals with an assessment of their needs and the supports necessary for them to succeed in integrated settings by professionals who are knowledgeable about the variety of services available in the community.
• Enable people with disabilities to make informed choices about the decision to reside in the most integrated settings by furnishing information about the benefits of integrated settings, facilitating on-site visits to community programs and providing opportunities to meet with other individuals with disabilities who are living, working and receiving supports in integrated community settings, with their families, and in other arrangements.
• Protect people with disabilities from the risk of institutionalization resulting from service or support reductions or reconfigurations as a result of state funding reductions through the provision of support alternatives that do not result in institutionalization.

(image description: a yellow sign that says, ADA is about equal access for all!)