Neuropsychological Functioning of Homeless Men

Numerous biological and psychological factors associated with impaired neurological functioning have been identified as common among the homeless, but there has been relatively little systematic examination of the cognitive functioning of homeless people. This study explored the neuropsychological functioning of 90 homeless men. There was great variability in their test scores, but the presence of possible cognitive impairment was detected in 80% of the sample. Average general intellectual functioning and reading abilities were found to be relatively low, and the incidence of impairments in reading, new verbal learning, memory, and attention and concentration was high. These findings suggest that the homeless men in this study had considerable assessment and treatment needs that were not being met by most of the health and social services offered to them

Neuropsychological functioning of homeless men in shelter: An exploratory study

Neuropsychological Functioning of Homeless Men in Shelter: An Exploratory Study Numerous biological and psychological factors associated with impaired neurological functioning have been identified as common in the homeless, but relatively few studies have specifically addressed the neuropsychological functioning of homeless individuals. A review of the literature revealed that neuropsychological assessment, diagnosis, and treatment for the homeless tend to be inadequate or altogether lacking. Therefore, this study explored the neuropsychological functioning of 75 homeless men in shelter. The presence of cognitive impairment was detected in 83% of the sample. The average Full Scale IQ score was 83.35 (SD = 15.42; Range = 54-116) with 23% of the scores falling at or below 69, a range indicative of mental retardation. The incidence of impairments in new verbal learning (61%), memory (52%-73%), and attention and concentration (19%-27%) were very high. Likewise, the incidence of self-reported traumatic brain injuries (41%), substance abuse/dependence (92%), and other mental health disorders (47%) were also very high. Nearly one-third of the sample demonstrated reading abilities at or below a fifth grade level. These findings suggest that the homeless men in this study have considerable diagnostic and treatment needs that are not being met by most of the social services currently offered to this population