Shravya Ghantasala
Pronouns: she/her
Research Mentor(s): Dennis Archambault
Research Mentor School/College/Department: Authority Health / NonUM
Program:
Authors: Shravya Ghantasala, Sara Gleicher, Dennis Archambault
Session: Session 7: 4:40 pm – 5:30 pm
Poster: 91
Abstract
Detroit has a poverty rate of roughly 30%, nearly three times higher than the national average. As a result, many Detroit residents are at risk of eviction and houselessness. To better understand the impacts of living in HUD buildings, this study covers health and well-being assessments of senior residents across 8 Detroit HUD buildings. Using a UM-developed assessment tool, interviewers connected with residents to learn more about their health status, satisfaction with the building, and overall well-being. Through qualitative and quantitative analysis, we could better understand and break down the interview data to advocate for building improvements effectively. Upon data analysis, it is apparent that over 3/4 of the interviewed residents experience high blood pressure, which is exacerbated by stress. Further reinforcing this finding, many buildings don’t have an on-site security guard or consistently monitored security cameras, which can amplify chronic stress, exacerbating health issues.
