Experiencing COVID-19 through the Eyes of Homeless Military Veterans: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Aims and Objectives: To explore the lived experience of homeless veterans during the COVID- 19 pandemic. Background: Homelessness is problematic in military veterans especially in a pandemic. Qualitative studies are needed to determine the needs of homeless military veterans during the COVID-19 pandemic. Method: A qualitative, phenomenological approach was used to analyze data from interviews with homeless military veterans who had experienced the COVID-19 pandemic. Lincoln & Guba’s Qualitative Integrity Framework was used for Methodological Rigor. Data Collection: Semi-structured audiotaped interviews with field notes were used. Data Analysis: Creswell’s method of analyzing significant statements and the generation of meaningful units and essence description were implemented. Results: These already vulnerable homeless military veterans described fear, social isolation, psychological, employment, and financial consequences, as well as health care delivery changes during COVID. Conclusions: This study highlighted the disparities homeless military veterans experienced during the COVID- 19 pandemic. Nurses should understand the health and social concerns of this population to foster interventions that will help them adapt and persevere through a crisis.