Homelessness is a health crisis: why hospitals are resorting to building housing.
- Resource Type
- Article
- Authors
- Boozary, Andrew; Varner, Catherine; Laupacis, Andreas
- Source
- Canadian Medical Association Journal (CMAJ). 5/21/2024, Vol. 196 Issue 19, pE666-E667. 2p.
- Subject
- *HOMELESSNESS
*HOUSING
*EMERGENCY room visits
*VACANT lands
*HOSPITALS
- Language
The article discusses the urgent issue of homelessness among older adults in Canada and its impact on healthcare. A recent report revealed that hospital admissions for homeless individuals lasted longer and cost more than admissions for those who were housed. Homelessness has significant health effects, including shorter lifespans, accelerated aging, and higher rates of comorbidities. The lack of affordable housing and appropriate community supports contribute to the problem. Some hospitals are responding by building supportive housing in partnership with governments and social service organizations. The article emphasizes the need for policy changes and better integration of health and social support interventions to address the homelessness crisis. [Extracted from the article]