Discussing Vulnerable Populations

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Discussing Vulnerable Populations

Despite efforts in the United States to reduce or eliminate disparities in our healthcare by 2010 and despite a steadily recovering and growing economy, many U.S. citizens still struggle immensely with disparities. Vulnerable populations in particular, continue to face challenges with accessibility to healthcare while experiencing more threats to their wellbeing. Studies have shown that Americans living in poverty are more likely to be in poor health and have disabling conditions while being less likely to be eligible to receive many types of healthcare services.

So, when we speak of vulnerable populations, whom are we referring to exactly? Vulnerable populations include the economically disadvantaged, racial and ethnic minorities, the uninsured, low-income children, the elderly, the homeless, those with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), and those suffering from other chronic health conditions, including severe mental illness. It also can include rural residents who often do not have direct routes to accessing services. 

Yes, the list presented here is long and the level of vulnerability of these individuals is further impacted by race, ethnicity, age, sex, income, and lack of insurance coverage. Social factors such as housing, poverty, and inadequate education also intersect with vulnerable populations. 

Nonwhite women ages 45 to 64 who are unemployed and uninsured with lower incomes and education levels tend to report the poorest health status. 

Food insecurity also affects vulnerable populations. The USDA defines food insecurity as the state of being without reliable access to a sufficient quantity of affordable, nutritious food. Minority aging populations unequally experience a lack in basic needs compared to whites. Not only is food insecurity a strong predictor of many health problems, it is also identified as a source of chronic illness that can lead to emotional distress and depression. 

Unmet needs of adequate, nutritious food have major impact on older adult health. 

Stay tuned for future posts concerning the senior population of Multnomah County and in the meantime check out Meals On Wheels via the following link: 

https://www.mealsonwheelspeople.org/our-story/organization-overview/












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