NSG 4074

Vulnerability is defined as “susceptibility to actual or potential stressors that may lead to an adverse effect” (Stanhope & Lancaster, 2016, p. 716). The homeless population is one of those vulnerable populations. They tend to be at a higher risk for having poor health and they face numerous challenges finding healthcare when they are sick. Discussion regarding the homeless population will include their demographics, socioeconomics, any environmental hazards they face, and their ability to access health care services. Additionally, risk factors in relation to morbidity and mortality for this population will be covered, and finally health promotion activities for the homeless will be reviewed. Demographics The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) loosely defines homelessness as: “those persons who are on the streets or in shelters and persons who face imminent eviction (within a week) from a private dwelling or institution and who have not subsequent residence or resources to obtain housing” ("Homeless," 2007, p. 1). During 2018 approximately 553,000 people were classified as homeless. Approximately 370,000 people stayed in either homeless shelters or some type of temporary housing. The other 183,000 were truly homeless with living on the streets or in abandoned buildings (Henry et al., 2018). Even though homelessness had a slight 0.3 percent increase from 2017, the overall percentage of homeless has declined dramatically since 2007. Homeless families with children declined by 2 percent from 2017, but when compared to 2007, the decline came in at 23 percent. Homelessness of veterans also declined when compared to both 2017 and 2009. Respectively