Occupational Therapy Skills Provide a Unique Benefit for Homeless Patients
Homelessness is a growing concern across the globe, and the U.S. is no exception. According to the National Alliance to End Homelessness, on any given night more than 600,000 Americans experience homelessness. And because the vast majority of homeless people are without healthcare coverage, their treatment options are limited when it comes to receiving quality care—a reality that was brought in to light in recent months.
Harsh winter conditions across the country led to an influx of homeless hospital patients requiring post-acute care. Along with providing temporary care and assistance, healthcare professionals were tasked also with creating safe discharge plans for homeless patients following their hospital stays. This includes plans to help them perform everyday activities necessary for positive self-care—prompting a growing need for occupational therapy skills in the healthcare industry.
The Calgary Herald, for example, reported that two occupational therapy students recently helped a 27-year-old homeless man get back on his feet. Over the course of six weeks, the students identified the unique cognitive challenges and mental health issues the man faced, then came up with an individualized treatment plan that included education about cooking meals and managing his finances.
This story and others like it emphasize the unique benefits occupational therapists provide in the healthcare setting. Through continuing education, professionals can gain the knowledge necessary to help countless individuals—including the millions of impoverished in the U.S.—overcome physical and emotional ailments to become independent and successful members of society.