An individual experiencing homelessness may face many obstacles while trying to get – and stay in — permanent housing. Housing for Health (HFH) at the Los Angeles County Department of Health Services is using a trusted solution to combat these problems by incorporating occupational therapists (OTs).
HFH is eliminating many of the roadblocks unhoused residents experience by implementing the occupational therapy program. This innovative approach addresses the vital set of skills that people need to adjust and thrive during their transition into housing. The care is diverse and focused on helping individuals do the daily life activities they want, need, and are expected to do to stay healthy and housed. Interventions range from teaching a variety of skills, from basic self-care, sorting and organizing medications, helping navigate public transportation, and adapting tasks, supports, and environments and many more. These tasks may seem simple to some, but they can be the difference between living on the street and sustaining permanent supportive housing.
“The occupational therapy program is relatively new,” stated Heidi Behforouz, HFH Medical Director. “The program emphasizes functional recovery, not so much of the medical model which fixes a particular condition you may have. But given your condition, how can you live the best life that you can?”
The unique aspect of the model is that it provides access to occupational therapy at different touch points, whether individuals are on the streets, in transitional housing, or in permanent supportive housing. This helps ensure that people are able to access, participate, and engage in the housing supports and health services regardless of their disabilities and life experiences. This comprehensive approach reflects the HFH’s commitment to providing tailored support to individuals experiencing homelessness, ultimately aiming to improve their overall well-being and quality of life.
The integration of occupational therapy program into the county’s homeless services represents a significant step forward in addressing the complex needs of our most vulnerable population. By offering support at various stages of homelessness, the model emphasizes the importance of personalized care and assistance for individuals as they transition from unstable living situations to more permanent housing.