Homelessness In Canada

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To meet the changing needs of society, Canada 's health care system must constantly evolve. Recent trends in the Canadian health care systems reveal a need for better access to health care among homeless populations, and a shift towards home care services to better serve an aging population. These trends highlight a number of opportunities for occupational therapists (OTs) to assume leadership on roles on health care teams in order to improve health outcomes and client care.
On any given night, thousands of Canadians are homeless. A lack of a stable and supportive living environment is detrimental to one’s health and well-being, and presents many barriers to engagement in meaningful and productive occupations. Consequently, homeless individuals …show more content…
Common health problems among homeless adults include arthritis, diabetes, and concurrent disorders. Despite access to universal health care, Canada 's current model of primary health care does not meet the substantial health care needs of homeless people. Barriers such as lack of transportation and fear of stigmatization can impede homeless individuals from seeking the health care they need. In addition, limited opportunities for engagement in activities of daily living also contribute to the poor health and well-being of homeless individuals. With a focus on removing the barriers to participation, and enabling people to live meaningful and productive lives, OTs can play a significant leadership role on multidisciplinary teams to address the functional needs of homeless individuals. By assessing the personal, environmental, and occupational factors that influence occupational performance, OTs are well prepared to provide holistic and client-centered interventions in homeless shelters and …show more content…
OTs are well prepared to improve health and well-being by advocating for the value of OT and demonstrating the positive benefits of engaging in valued and productive occupations. By taking a holistic and client-centered approach, OTs provide a unique understanding of client needs and are well situated to implement evidence-based treatment plans to better serve patients. OTs have continued to cultivate their expertise in enabling occupation across various health care settings and have demonstrated leadership roles in prevention, rehabilitation, chronic disease management, and other health promotion activities. While collaborating with inter-professional teams, OTs have the ability to expand access to cost-effective services while facilitating health care reform change that improves quality of

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