Memory, fluid reasoning, and functional capacity in adults experiencing homelessness

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Psychology
• Public Health

Background:

• Functional capacity, essential for daily living and housing stability, is poorly understood in homeless populations.
• Identifying modifiable cognitive correlates of functional capacity can inform targeted interventions.
• This study focuses on neuropsychological predictors of functional performance in adults experiencing homelessness.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify the strongest neuropsychological predictors of functional capacity variance.
• To explore the relationship between cognitive abilities and functional performance in homeless adults.
• To inform potential interventions for improving independence and housing stability.

Main Methods:

• 100 adults in a homeless shelter completed cognitive tests and functional capacity assessments.
• Cognitive screening yielded four composite scores, alongside measures of processing speed, fluid reasoning, and premorbid intellectual function.
• Hierarchical linear regression was used to predict functional capacity variance.

Main Results:

• Memory and fluid reasoning were significant predictors of functional performance.
• Education and premorbid intellectual function also impacted functional capacity.
• These cognitive factors explained a notable portion of the variance in functional ability.

Conclusions:

• Cognitive interventions targeting memory and fluid reasoning may enhance functional ability in homeless individuals.
• While not causal, findings suggest potential therapeutic targets for improving independence.
• Further research is needed to confirm the efficacy of cognitive interventions in this population.