Table 3

Characteristics of individuals identified as homeless in 2016 using the optimal annual housing experience algorithm (any CIHI indicator +/−15 days)

Individuals identified as homeless in 2016 (n=11 731)
Age group (years), n (%)
 18–241901 (16.2)
 25–343498 (29.8)
 35–503246 (27.7)
 51–652352 (20.1)
 Over 65734 (6.3)
Female sex, n (%)3497 (29.8)
City of residence in 2016, n (%)
 Toronto4299 (36.7)
 Ottawa684 (5.8)
In a rural area, n (%)667 (5.7)
Recent immigrant, n (%)1172 (10.0)
Immigrated as refugee, n (%)366 (3.2)
Charlson Comorbidity Index, n (%)
 01825 (15.6)
 1550 (4.7)
 2+465 (4.0)
 No hospitalisation8891 (75.8)
Comorbidities, n (%)
 Congestive heart failure222 (1.9)
 Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease1258 (10.7)
 Diabetes1233 (10.5)
 Chronic kidney disease*588 (5.0)
 Chronic liver disease*1244 (10.6)
 HIV positive202 (1.7)
Primary care visits, mean (SD)33.0 (43.6)
Emergency department visits, mean (SD)5.5 (9.2)
Admissions to hospital, mean (SD)1.9 (1.7)
Mental health-related care, n (%)
 Psychotic disorders3014 (25.7)
 Non-psychotic disorders6433 (54.8)
 Substance use disorders4917 (41.9)
  • *Within the past 3 years.

  • †Occurring in the past year.

  • CIHI, Discharge Abstract Database, National Ambulatory Care Reporting System or Ontario Mental Health Reporting System.