The Visual Acuity and Social Issues of the Homeless Population in Toronto

We investigated the visual acuity of homeless people in Toronto and assessed the relationship of visual acuity to several determinants of health including age, education, attitudes and length of time in the homeless state. An interview questionnaire and a best-corrected near and distant visual acuity exam were conducted in a population of homeless men who were residing at the Good Shepherd Center, a homeless shelter in Toronto. We discovered that 56% of homeless individuals suffered from poor visual acuity and 54% of these individuals could achieve significant improvement in vision through the use of a pinhole. Elderly, chronically homeless men were more likely to suffer from poor visual acuity. Our study suggests that through effective screening of visual problems and support for free glasses, the quality of life and earning potential of homeless individuals in Toronto can be increased. Further recommendations are discussed.