Abstract
Individuals experiencing homelessness exhibit reduced participation in hygiene routines that have a detrimental effect on well-being. OTs are well-positioned to work with the unhoused population, as shown in this systematic review.
Primary Author and Speaker: Shannon Schoellig
Additional Authors and Speakers: Stefanie Clinton, Abdullah Mohammad, Arijana Andelija, Elizabeth Bowden
Individuals experiencing homelessness tend to exhibit reduced participation in hygiene and sanitation routines, which can have a detrimental effect on physical health and well-being. Occupational therapists are well-positioned to work with the unhoused population, as they aim to enable participation in meaningful occupations by reducing barriers through a client-centered approach. This systematic review aims to understand how skilled education regarding oral hygiene affects the health and well-being of unhoused individuals in community and/or clinical settings. A systematic review was conducted following the PRISMA guidelines. Nine databases were utilized, identifying 1558 citations. After removing duplicates and employing inclusion/exclusion criteria, two results remained. Included studies implemented oral health hygiene education to unhoused individuals with varying approaches that included the provision of oral care supplies. When prompted for feedback regarding the intervention, participants noted reduced barriers to oral care and improved access to oral care supplies, as well as the importance of maintaining oral hygiene routines. Multifaceted oral hygiene education positively impacts the health and well-being of unhoused individuals in community settings. Occupational therapists specifically can play an important role in improving oral care habits and routines by addressing barriers and providing skilled education. Future research should include larger sample sizes, specific outcome measures on well-being and quality of life, and a mixed methods approach to improve understanding and strengthen generalizability.
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