Introduction:
Homelessness or the risk of becoming homeless is a significant challenge that many Veterans face after their service. According to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s 2017 report, over 40,000 Veterans experienced homelessness on a given night in January 2017. Although this number represented a 45 percent decline between 2009 and 2017, the issue remains a pressing concern for the approximately 18.5 million living Veterans.
VA Research Accomplishments:
Over the years, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has made substantial progress in understanding and addressing Veteran homelessness. Some key accomplishments include:
1. Exploring the association between childhood problems, such as abuse and family instability, and homelessness among Veterans.
2. Investigating the link between military sexual trauma and an increased risk of homelessness for Veterans.
3. Establishing that Veterans discharged for misconduct, especially those with drug or alcohol abuse issues, have significantly higher rates of homelessness.
4. Determining that providing free legal services within VA facilities positively impacts Veterans’ mental health and housing outcomes.
New, Ongoing, and Published Research:
VA continues to be committed to developing new research and interventions to prevent homelessness among Veterans and improve their overall well-being. Researchers are investigating various aspects of homelessness, such as the risks associated with opioid addiction and the impact of trauma on homeless Veterans.
Risks of Becoming Homeless:
Studies indicate that Veterans have similar risk factors for homelessness as other adults, such as substance abuse, severe mental illness, and low income. However, unique factors, including problematic military discharges and social isolation after discharge, also contribute to their risk.
Homelessness and Opioid Addiction:
Homeless Veterans are more likely to have opioid addiction, and VA medical centers provide treatment programs to address this issue.
Trauma in Homeless Veterans:
Researchers have studied the relationship between post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and anxiety disorders in homeless Veterans and their risk of becoming homeless.
Homelessness in Women Veterans:
The number of homeless female Veterans has increased, and factors like adverse childhood experiences, military sexual trauma, and intimate partner violence play a significant role in their homelessness.
Housing First:
VA has adopted the Housing First model of care, providing housing solutions for homeless Veterans without requiring them to be sober or participate in treatment programs.
Homeless Patient Aligned Care Teams (H-PACTs):
Established in 2012, H-PACT teams provide comprehensive, individualized care to homeless Veterans, including services that lead to permanent housing.
New Ways to Reach Homeless Veterans:
VA is exploring innovative solutions to increase homeless Veterans’ access to care, such as peer mentor programs and integrating legal aid with medical care.
Homeless Veterans and HIV:
Homeless Veterans are at a higher risk of being infected with HIV, and VA is working on identifying and quickly treating those with the virus.
Dental Care:
Dental care is a critical need for homeless Veterans, and the Homeless Veterans Dental Program provides necessary treatment to eligible individuals.
Despite the progress made, the issue of Veteran homelessness remains complex, and there is still much work to be done. As a society, we must continue supporting research efforts, implementing effective interventions, and fostering a compassionate environment to ensure that no Veteran is left without a stable home and the care they deserve. By taking action and working together, we can make a lasting impact on the lives of those who have selflessly served our nation.