Variables associated with deterioration in quality of life among individuals living in permanent supportive housing in Quebec during the COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

This study aimed to identify sociodemographic and clinical characteristics and service use associated with deterioration in quality of life (QoL) among individuals residing in permanent supportive housing (PSH) during the COVID-19 pandemic. Between 2020-2022, PSH residents (n=231) were recruited from congregate and scattered site PSH in Montreal (Quebec/Canada). Multivariate logistic regression was used to test associations between QoL and PSH characteristics. Most participants (62%) reported deterioration in QoL. Decreased in PSH follow-up care and biopsychosocial services other than those from physicians, especially in basic needs, having still mental disorders (MD) or COVID-19 were found the most associated with QoL deterioration. Residing in PSH for 10+ years versus <2 years, high satisfaction with PSH, and access to public specialized outpatient services were identified as protective factors against deterioration in QoL. The findings demonstrated that comprehensive services for PSH residents may be intensified during a pandemic to protect against deterioration in QoL.