Identifying occupation-based needs and services for individuals experiencing homelessness using interviews and photovoice

Homelessness can impact society and individuals in many ways.

The purpose of this project was to examine the current occupation-based needs and services among persons experiencing homelessness (PEH) in a major city.

Researchers conducted semi-structured interviews with eight PEH residing in a homeless shelter. Three questions were asked of each participant: What daily personal activities have been most impacted since undergoing homelessness? Which services have been most helpful to you in overcoming homelessness? What other services might you find helpful to individuals experiencing housing insecurity? Researchers also gathered qualitative data utilizing a Photovoice component in which twelve PEH had the opportunity to photograph one object and provide a quote associated with the meaningful object.

Under-addressed areas of occupation, services received, and services requested were identified. Findings suggest that areas of occupation most impacted by homelessness include instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs), activities of daily living (ADLs), leisure, social participation, and rest and sleep. Services received included case management and often met basic self-care needs of PEH. Services requested included group therapy, restructuring of the shelter to support individualization, and staff training.

Occupational therapy practitioners have the skill set to assess needed services among PEH. Meaningful objects captured by the clients via Photovoice may relate to past, present and future satisfaction despite being homeless.