Articles tagged with Homelessness
A program incorporating rent supplements and case management services led to more stable housing for homeless adults with mental illness in four Canadian cities. The intervention improved living situation and safety but not overall quality of life.
Research reveals that homeless individuals with mental illness have a greater than double risk of developing serious or fatal cardiovascular disease. The risk is significantly higher among men and those with substance abuse problems.
A pilot study by NC State University finds that 25% of homeless children in the US are in need of mental health services. The study highlights the critical need for more screening and support for these vulnerable children.
A new study by St. Michael's Hospital found that 25% of homeless people surveyed in Toronto had vision problems, including blindness, four times higher than the general population. Glasses or contact lenses would help only two in five individuals with vision issues.
A study assessing neurocognitive functioning in 1,500 homeless adults found nearly three-quarters to have cognitive deficits. Cognitive remediation practices need improvement for this population, with adaptations required in treatment and support options.
A study by Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine researcher Anita Rao found that homeless, mentally ill women in India suffer from a vicious cycle of homelessness and mental illness relapse. The study highlights the need for a balance between reintegrating women with their families and achieving psychiatric remission.
A new series on homelessness in high-income countries highlights the alarming health risks faced by homeless individuals, including higher rates of tuberculosis and depression. The series also notes that despite an expansion of services, the risk of death among homeless people has remained similar over the past 20 years.
A recent study published in The Lancet highlights the need for comprehensive policy changes to address homelessness. Homeless individuals are not only sick physically and mentally but also have lower life expectancy.
A partial smoking ban at a homeless shelter led to reduced expired carbon monoxide levels, indicating less smoking and/or secondhand smoke exposure. Residents supported the policy change, with most smokers believing it would improve resident health.
A new study found that vulnerable populations in Toronto reported more discrimination by healthcare workers based on their housing status, mental health, or substance abuse issues than race. Forty-two percent of people surveyed experienced at least one form of perceived discrimination.
Research at UC San Francisco found 60% of HIV-infected or high-risk unstably housed women experienced recent violence, including emotional, physical, and sexual violence. Social isolation unexpectedly reduced the odds of experiencing violence, while psychiatric diagnoses increased the risk.
Research by the University of Copenhagen found that street football boosts postural balance, muscle mass, and bone mineralization in homeless men. The study also showed improvements in aerobic fitness, exercise capacity, and cardiovascular health.
A new study from St. Michael's Hospital found that homeless clients in Toronto are nearly nine times more likely to have a history of problem or pathological gambling than the general population. This highlights the need for screening and holistic treatment approaches for this vulnerable group.
Participants in a 12-week pilot program received monthly naltrexone injections and set their own treatment goals, resulting in decreases in alcohol craving (33%), consumption (25-34%), and problems associated with alcohol use (60%). The counseling approach was non-judgmental and focused on participants' individual goals.
A study by St. Michael's Hospital found that nearly half of homeless men suffered a traumatic brain injury in their life, with most occurring before they lost their homes. The study highlights the links between TBI and mental health issues, substance abuse, seizures, and poorer physical health.
A study of homeless and vulnerably housed individuals with traumatic brain injury (TBI) found they are more likely to visit emergency departments, be arrested or assaulted. The research highlights the importance of screening for TBI and providing support to manage behaviors after brain injuries.
A new study found that when charity is tied to personal gain, it's viewed less favorably by others. Participants rated individuals who benefited from charity as less moral and ethical compared to those who didn't benefit. The researchers suggest finding ways to reduce this bias could lead to more charitable donations.
A Baylor University study finds that Libyan civilians trained by American mental health professionals experience significant healing through peer-led groups, leading to a dramatic reduction in symptoms. The approach has implications for other countries with limited access to mental health services.
A University of Pittsburgh professor's research shows that competition can increase the saving behavior of the working homeless. The study found that residents who participated in a competition offered a prize of $100 for saving the largest percentage of their pay increased their savings rate by 33%.
A small group of homeless people are extremely high users of ERs, with some individuals visiting the hospital over 8 times a year. These frequent users often have multiple complex healthcare needs and require more than just emergency care.
A study found that single homeless women and men visit emergency departments an average of over twice a year, significantly more than the general population. Homeless individuals also have higher doctor's appointments and hospitalization rates, highlighting the need for improved healthcare management and affordable housing.
Military veterans who struggle with managing their finances are at a higher risk of becoming homeless. A new study published in the American Journal of Public Health found that money mismanagement is a significant predictor of future homelessness among veterans, regardless of income or mental health status.
A study found that Haitians rely heavily on traditional healers and religious leaders for health information, but struggle with Western medicine and vaccination uptake. The research highlights the need for more coordinated efforts to provide healthcare to the Haitian population.
The University of Houston College of Pharmacy has received a national award for its work in providing essential health care services to Houston's homeless population. The clinic serves over 3,000 patients and will use the grant to expand its pharmacy supply.
A new study reveals that two-thirds of SRO tenants were previously homeless and suffered from an average of three illnesses at the same time. Ninety-five per cent had substance dependence, nearly half suffered from psychosis, and nearly 70% had been exposed to Hepatitis C.
A new study from the University of California - San Francisco found that friendships play a crucial role in reducing risky behaviors among homeless youth. Homeless young women were found to have lower condom use and a higher likelihood of sex with intravenous drug users, leading to higher rates of STIs.
A new study finds that involving community groups in depression care improves mental health outcomes among low-income patients. The community engagement approach, which included collaborative planning with diverse services programs, resulted in increased physical activity, lower hospitalizations, and improved stability in daily life.
A new study by Dr. Tomislav Svoboda found that homeless men who are heavy drinkers have a staggering 400 times more head injuries than the general population. The study also revealed that these men experience severe and frequent brain bleeding, dizziness, memory loss, and mental health issues.
A new program, co-led by St. Michael's Hospital, has shown promise in reducing service use and substance abuse among frequent healthcare users with severe addictions. The Toronto Community Addiction Team provides one-on-one intensive case management, resulting in a statistically significant decrease in service use, alcohol, and drug use.
A new study published in BMC Public Health has found that homeless people have a disproportionately higher risk for traumatic brain injuries (TBI) compared to the general population. The study suggests that TBI may be a risk factor for homelessness and could contribute to the chronicity of homelessness.
A recent study by Massachusetts General Hospital and Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program found that drug overdose deaths have surpassed HIV as the leading cause of death among homeless adults in Boston, with a significant increase in opioid-related overdoses. The study highlights the dire need to address the epidemic of drug ov...
A longitudinal study of over 26,000 Minneapolis Public Schools students found that homelessness and frequent moving led to persistently lower reading and math achievement scores. Despite this, individual children's academic resilience varied significantly, with 45% scoring within the average range or better.
A new study led by researchers from UCLA School of Nursing found that nursing interventions and art messaging programs can significantly decrease substance abuse among homeless youths. The study revealed significant reductions in alcohol, marijuana, cocaine, methamphetamine, and hallucinogen use.
A new paper calls for a trauma-informed approach in shelters to address the unique challenges faced by homeless families with children who have mental-health problems. The authors recommend changes in shelter practices and future research on parenting in homeless families.
High rates of HIV, hepatitis C, and tuberculosis have been found in homeless populations globally, with rates up to 46 times higher in the US than in the general population. Infections can lead to community spread, malnutrition, and increased healthcare use.
A University of Dayton study found that homeless individuals have equal access to social media platforms, including Facebook, where they can build support networks and solve practical issues. Social media becomes a refuge for them, a place to interact without being judged.
Homeless individuals with chronic kidney disease are more likely to develop depression, substance abuse, and kidney failure. They also overuse emergency medical services, leading to increased public costs. Research highlights the need for better healthcare access and support services for homeless patients.
A recent study found that 26.7% of homeless adults in downtown LA are infected with hepatitis C, while nearly half (46.1%) are unaware of their infection status. The study also highlights the need for interventions such as HCV education, counseling, and voluntary testing and treatment services.
A groundbreaking study found that effective HIV treatment and transmission reduction are thwarted by patients' unmet basic living needs such as housing, food, and hygiene. The research suggests that addressing these subsistence needs is crucial to improving public health outcomes.
A new study published in PLOS ONE found that addressing subsistence needs is crucial for improving the health of HIV-infected individuals living in poverty. The research, conducted by UCSF scientists, revealed that unmet basic needs like housing and food significantly undermine the benefits of HIV medication delivery.
Ex-offenders face significant barriers to securing accommodation due to local authority restrictions, limited housing connections, and complex needs. Strengthening relationships between housing advice agencies, local authorities, and third sector organisations is crucial for reducing reoffending rates.
Researchers discovered that homeless individuals with severe alcohol problems cut their heavy drinking by 35% when provided with stable housing. The study also showed a decrease in instances of delirium tremens and improved overall health.
A new study by researchers at Duke University and Princeton University suggests that a person's brain can disengage from social interaction when encountering individuals considered 'disgusting', leading to 'dehumanized perception' and a lack of empathy. This failure can contribute to human atrocities, torture, and genocide.
Research shows playing street football two to three times a week can halve the risk of early death in homeless men. The study found improvements in aerobic fitness, cholesterol, body fat, and blood pressure.
Homeless seniors in Boston experience high rates of functional decline, falls, frailty, and depression compared to the general population. Many conditions are easily treatable if detected, suggesting early screening is crucial for clinicians caring for homeless adults.
A study by St. Michael's Hospital found that nearly half of homeless people with chronic pain use street drugs to treat their condition, highlighting the need for improved approaches to managing chronic pain in this population. The study also highlights the importance of community outreach programs and education for healthcare provider...
A study by Boston Children's Hospital found that 1 in 4 lesbian or gay teens and 15 percent of bisexual teens are homeless. Among homeless teens, those who were gay, lesbian, or bisexual (GLB) were consistently more likely to be unaccompanied than heterosexuals.
A nationwide homeless register study found that homeless men and women have significantly higher mortality rates, with six times the risk of death compared to the general population. Homeless individuals also had lower life expectancy, particularly among younger men and women.
A new report by St. Michael's Hospital and Street Health reveals that homeless people are more likely to have a family doctor if they possess a health card or have chronic medical conditions. The report highlights the need for programs to secure and maintain health cards and increase access to primary care in this population.
A UK study found that 81% of single homeless people lived independently 18 months after resettlement, with most reporting improved lives and rebuilding their relationships. Help from tenancy-support workers was crucial in the first months of resettlement.
A York University report highlights the need for a greater emphasis on prevention, family reconnection, and rapid re-housing efforts in Canada's approach to youth homelessness. The report cites successful programs in Australia and the UK that have helped young people reconnect with their families or move into independent housing.
Cedars-Sinai's COACH for Kids program will provide comprehensive screenings, immunizations and early treatment to over 25,000 medically underserved children annually. The $20,000 grant expands vital healthcare services to homeless children in need.
A new study by St. Michael's Hospital found that homeless patients cost an additional $2,559 per hospital stay compared to housed patients, after adjusting for age and illness severity. This excess cost is largely due to the severity of psychiatric illnesses among homeless individuals.
Homeless kids who use online social networking sites are more likely to have been tested for sexually transmitted infections and better informed about preventing them, despite increased risk of risky behaviors
A study by St. Michael's Hospital found that one in five homeless people with tuberculosis die within a year of diagnosis, emphasizing the need for enhanced prevention and treatment strategies.
A new study published in the Journal of General Internal Medicine found that homeless people who don't get enough to eat have a higher risk of being hospitalized. Nearly half of hungry homeless adults had been hospitalized in the preceding year.
A study by Young and Rice found that online social networking has both positive and negative effects on sexual risk behaviors in homeless youth, with potential for increased risks but also opportunities for effective health communication and information portals.
A new report by York University researchers finds that homeless young people are disproportionately victimized by violence and crime. The study, which interviewed 244 homeless youths across Toronto, highlights the need for a balanced response to address youth homelessness and crime.
The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation recognizes 10 Community Health Leaders who have improved the lives of men, women, and children in underserved communities. The awardees receive $125,000 to support their ongoing work.
A new study reveals that 17% of Toronto's homeless population has unmet health care needs, with women and those with dependent children facing significant barriers. The study highlights the importance of primary care providers and access to healthcare for vulnerable populations.