Studies consistently show that individuals experiencing homelessness have a significantly shorter life expectancy compared to those with stable housing. The reasons behind this alarming trend are multifaceted, involving a complex interplay of factors such as limited access to healthcare, exposure to harsh environmental conditions, mental health challenges, and the constant struggle for survival on the streets.
Original article written by: Diana Lonescu
A recent learning from the National Bureau of Economic Research revealed a notable disparity in life expectancy between those with homes and those without. According to Christian Leonard in the San Francisco Chronicle, the findings show that younger homeless people are about 3.5 times more likely to die in a year than those with homes. The study also points out a surprising fact: a 40-year-old homeless person has a similar risk of dying as a 60-year-old person with a home. This sheds light on the tough challenges faced by homeless individuals, impacting their health and life expectancy.