Simon concerned at high level of deaths among homeless
Four people who used Dundalk Simon Community?s services met untimely deaths 2006, according to the organisation?s annual report.
And, Niall Mulligan, Director of Dundalk Simon Community, revealed to The Argus that a further six people who were residents or former residents have died so far this year.
Nationally, the average age of those who passed away was just 42 years of age, compared to the average Irish life expectancy of 78 years.
Simon?s annual report, which was launched yesterday (Tuesday) highlights the health problems faced by those who become homeless.People who are homeless often find it hard to access health care and are dying younger than the rest of the population,? said Niall.
He said this was sadly illustrated when he attended the funeral of a man who attended Dundalk Simon Community last week.The man was only 48, just a couple of years older than myself, and a few weeks previously another person of a similar age died.?
At the launch Simon?s annual report, the organisation?s Chief Executive Patrick Burke said that it was found that ?90% of people experiencing homelessness had a physical health complaint. Almost half of those profiled reported a psychiatric health problem. The majority indicated that they had a problem with alcohol and drugs.?
While the Simon Community in Dundalk enjoys a good relationship with the HSE and mental health services, Niall said homeless people or former residents who have moved back into the community, often have a difficulty in accessing services.
The problems faced by homeless people in accessing health care is especially serious given that they often became homeless due to mental illness, alcohol or drug addiction in the first place, Niall pointed out.Once people become homeless it is extremely difficult for them to deal with addictions and often people with mental health problems self-medicate with drugs or alcohol.?It can be a vicious circle for the homeless and often it?s very difficult for them to break out of.?
