Housing Blocks for Vulnerable Groups: Accessibility and Satisfaction for People with Disabilities in Astana, Kazakhstan

Abstract

Affordable housing is significant in meeting independence, safety, and life quality among individuals with disabilities. The government has been involved in the introduction of subsidized housing programs in Kazakhstan where vulnerable populations are assisted such as individuals with disability. Nevertheless, the evidence regarding the availability and adequacy of living conditions under these housing programs is very limited. This paper will look at the degree of accessible and house contentment among individuals with disabilities residing in subsidized apartments within Astana and compare their experiences with that of individuals residing in non subsidized apartments. The research adopts a mixed-methods research design. Data collection was done in three subsidized housing complexes in Astana, Azerbayev Street, Valikhanov Street and Rechnoy Kvartal. The main study group would consist of the residents with disabilities who live at these housing blocks, and the comparison group would consist of individuals with disabilities who dwell in non-subsidized housing within the city. Techniques of data collection were structured surveys, semi-structured interviews and in-situ observations of living standards. Quantitative data analysis was conducted through descriptive and comparative statistical analysis; whereby qualitative data analysis was thematic. The results indicate that housing that is subsidized has the feature of basic accessibility provision like ramps and elevators, but most of them are poorly made or not maintained. This means that tenants living in subsidized housing do not always record increased rates of residential satisfaction than tenants living in non-subsidized housing. The findings of the interview also indicate that the issue of accessibility restricts the independence of residents and makes them more dependent on their relatives. The research claims that disability-inclusive housing should go beyond the formal accessibility requirements to include quality maintenance, good management and increased focus on the needs of the occupants.