Homelessness History Impacts on Health Outcomes and Economic and Risk Behavior Intermediaries: New Insights from Population Data

Abstract

Using data from the Washington Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System, this study assesses the relationship between homelessness history and physical and mental health outcomes as well as between homelessness history and health risk behaviors and economic precariousness as important intermediaries of subsequent health outcomes. Study results indicate that persons with a history of adult homelessness have consistently poorer health outcomes as compared to never homeless persons, and that even after accounting for childhood adversity and social assets, adult homelessness remains a consistent and strong predictor of poor health. These findings indicate that adult homelessness is a key component in understanding cumulative risk and vulnerability. Study results emphasize the importance of considering homelessness history in comprehensive health assessment and intervention services, as well as the utility of using representative public health surveys to understand population trends in housing instability.