N3000 CLASS 8
Vulnerable populations are specific, at-risk groups more susceptible to poor health due to socio-environmental factors.
They endure a larger “burden” of illness and distress compared to other groups.
Defined as: groups and communities at a higher risk for poor health due to barriers in social, economic, political, and environmental resources (MacDonald & Jakubec, 2022, pg. 352).
Health disparities: Wide variations in health services and health status among populations defined by specific characteristics (MacDonald & Jakubec, 2022, pg. 352).
Health inequalities: Uneven distribution of health outcomes or resources, highlighting structural and social determinants of health (MacDonald & Jakubec, 2022, pg. 352).
Health inequities: Unfair and avoidable differences in health status within and between people/countries (MacDonald & Jakubec, 2022, pg. 353).
Cumulative risks linked to:
Poor living conditions
Diet
Health status
Crime and violence
Increased prevalence of multiple illnesses.
Impact on resiliency.
Individuals living in poverty.
The homeless population.
Victims of violence.
Individuals living with mental illness or substance abuse.
Children and youth in disadvantaged conditions.
Indigenous populations.
Persons with disabilities.
The 2SLGBTQI+ community.
Terms used often interchangeably: vulnerable, targeted, disadvantaged, hard to reach, priority.
Examples: person with disabilities, high-risk groups.
Defined as insufficient financial resources to meet basic living expenses: food, shelter, clothing, transportation, medical expenses.
Effects of constant deprivation lead to a feeling of being trapped, with life centered around survival.
Poverty is recognized as the most powerful determinant of health.
Types of poverty: absolute, relative, and subjective poverty.
People at the top live longer and in better health than those in middle and bottom tiers.
Middle tier has poorer health and shorter lifespan than top tier.
Bottom tier individuals are twice as likely to suffer from serious illnesses and premature death than those at the top.
2022-23: 7.2% of the population was on caseload.
A decline in caseloads since 1996-97 (14.4%).
20,500 cases representing 29,000 beneficiaries.
Majority are unattached singles (76%); next, single parents (17%).
Equal split between female and male recipients.
Most beneficiaries are aged 50-59 years (20%).
Average benefits received: $13,644 for families; $9,048 for singles.
Key categories of homelessness:
Absolute homelessness: Sleeping outdoors, visible.
Sheltered homelessness: Using emergency shelter.
Hidden homelessness: Transient or episodic.
Risks include:
Targets of violence.
Rates of mental illness.
Substance abuse issues.
Higher incidence of communicable diseases (e.g., TB, HIV/AIDS).
Poor chronic disease management.
Unplanned pregnancies.
Skin and foot problems.
High costs of crisis management versus prevention.
Mention of a relevant video resource for additional context: Youth Homelessness Video.
Types of housing support include:
Emergency/Safe Houses.
Shelters and transitional housing.
Supportive housing options.
Housing subsidies.
Affordable and accessible housing.
Housing-first model initiatives.
Responsibilities include:
Identify risk factors and precursors.
Anticipate individual health effects.
Knowledge of resources to assist the homeless.
Aid access to health services.
Collaborate with communities to build capacity to tackle health inequalities.
Advocate for healthy public policies regarding homelessness.
Defined as non-accidental acts resulting in physical or psychological harm.
Physical: Seen frequently in domestic settings.
Psychological/Emotional: Includes intimidation and control.
Sexual: Involves assault and harassment.
Financial: Often targets seniors.
Verbal: Involves criticism and name-calling.
Spiritual: Utilizes religious influence or power abusively.
Various forms include physical, verbal, social, and cyber bullying.
Affects various groups: children, women, men, LGBTQ+ individuals, older adults.
Includes honour-related violence.
Vulnerability due to maltreatment, categorized into:
Physical
Sexual
Emotional abuse
Neglect
Mandatory reporting laws for suspected child abuse exist.
Signs include:
Denial of pregnancy reality.
Family stress and crises.
Drug or alcohol misuse.
Contradictory history regarding the child.
Indicators that may suggest abuse:
Unexplained injuries or malnourishment.
Inappropriate clothing for weather.
Excessive fear of caregivers.
Identification of high-risk groups is essential for program development:
Adolescents.
Older adults.
Injection drug users.
Pregnant drug users.
Focuses on reducing harm without necessitating complete cessation of drug use.
Discussion of a supportive video resource: Harm Reduction.
CHNs must demonstrate:
Strong assessment skills.
Up-to-date knowledge of resources.
Ability to plan care based on client concerns.
Strategies include creating a trustworthy environment and focusing on respect, compassion, and non-assumptive attitudes.
Importance of coordinating services and advocating for accessible healthcare.
Prevention focus and resource knowledge are crucial.
Key roles include:
Case finder, educator, counselor, direct-care provider.
Population health advocate, program planner, system navigator.
Community developer and evaluator of care.
Preventive measures include:
Affordable housing programs.
Job training initiatives.
Preventive healthcare services.
Focus on reducing prevalence and early diagnosis:
Supportive housing and meal programs.
Emergency housing solutions.
Aimed at restoring function and quality of life:
Psychosocial rehabilitation programs and advocacy for vulnerable populations.
If You Want to Help Me, Prescribe Me Money by Gary Bloch.