Homeless Veterans and Use of Information Technology

Persons experiencing homelessness, including homeless Veterans, increasingly use cell phones, computers, and other digital devices. In this chapter, the authors discuss use of technology by homeless Veterans, exploring ways that technology can facilitate access to information on resources including housing, job opportunities, health care, and personal health management. Also addressed is the role of technology in supporting development and maintenance of social networks and social capital for these marginalized Veterans. There have been several research reports specifically on homeless Veterans’ access to and use of information technologies. One study found that 89% of homeless Veteran survey participants had a cell phone. Like housed cell phone users, homeless Veterans use cell phones to stay in touch with family and friends and to complete specific tasks and transactions. Special challenges exist regarding technology use among homeless Veterans, including loss and theft of phones, keeping phones charged, and affording the service costs. The discussion in this chapter is informed by the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), which states that perceived ease of use and perceived usefulness affect attitudes toward use, intention to use, and ultimately, actual use in light of contextual, external variables. External variables for homeless Veterans include tenuous living arrangements, significant financial challenges, military culture, diverse experiences during military service, and complex medical and mental health conditions. The chapter concludes by looking at advances in technology that may be beneficial for homeless Veterans and also the challenges, related to technology, that are likely to continue for this population.