Homelessness Among Older Adults in a Texas Border Town

Abstract

This paper documents a descriptive pilot study utilizing a “point-in-time” or “point prevalence” method to determine the characteristics of those older adults living in homeless shelters in the city of El Paso. Of the 227 individuals who agreed to be involved in the survey, 53 (23% of the total sample) were 50 years and older. The characteristics of those 53 individuals ranging in age from 50-80 are presented. The profile is that of a poorly educated, Hispanic, Catholic male born in Mexico, who identifies Spanish as a first language, and who attributes his homeless state to joblessness or poverty. Key issues with regard to homelessness are employment and retraining. The article discusses the policies relevant to homelessness and employment retraining options as well as local initiatives. Implications for research, policy, and for social work intervention are also suggested in an effort to address needs of these homeless older adults.

Key Words:

• Elderly
• aging
• homeless
• Mexican-American
• unemployment