Conceptualizing the shelter and housing needs and solutions of homeless older adults

Abstract

Estimates of the number of homeless older adults are highly variable, but the proportion is expected to increase in Western countries as the general population ages. Much of the current literature on homelessness among older adults focuses on the causes of homelessness in later life, along with the health outcomes and service needs of this population. However, there is a dearth of research investigating potential shelter/housing solutions specific to homeless older adults that would meet their unique needs. This scoping review investigated the needs for housing homeless older adults and potential solutions. Based on thematic analysis of findings from 19 sources of primary research, we developed a conceptual model that suggests distinct, senior-specific needs and shelter/housing solutions of both newly and chronically homeless older adults.

Keywords:

• Homeless
• older adult
• aging in place
• permanent supportive housing

Acknowledgements

The authors acknowledge that the research for this report was conducted on the unceded territories of the Coast Salish people, including the territories of the xʷməθkwəyʷəm (Musqueam), Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish), and Səlʷílwətaʔ/Selilwitulh (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations, on which they are privileged to live, work, and play.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Joe Humphries

Joe Humphries is a Master's student in Gerontology at Simon Fraser University. His research interests include homelessness and aging, substance use, and community-based participatory research. He is involved in multiple projects on the topic of seniors' housing security, and his work history includes designing programs and services to support vulnerable older adults to live as independently as possible.

Sarah L. Canham

Sarah L. Canham, PhD, is an Associate Professor with a joint appointment in the College of Social Work and the Department of City and Metropolitan Planning in the College of Architecture and Planning at The University of Utah. She is also an Adjunct Professor in Simon Fraser University's Department of Gerontology. Her community research engages stakeholders and persons with lived experience to examine homelessness, housing security, health and social service delivery, and aging. Using a social justice lens, her work seeks solutions to systemic barriers to aging well in various environments.