Housing and Social Connection: Older Formerly Homeless Veterans Living in Subsidized Housing and Receiving Supportive Services

ABSTRACT

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to (Aim 1) describe United States military veterans’ experiences and attitudes about project-based housing (PBH) and tenant-based housing (TBH), including perceptions of their new environment, self‐sufficiency, and social integration. We identified (Aim 2) features of program design and housing facilities associated with self‐sufficiency and social integration including describing differences in veterans’ experiences of housing (PBH vs. TBH).

Methods: Interviews were conducted with 30 Veterans in the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development-VA Supportive Housing (HUD-VASH) program (25 male and 5 female; average age 63). Thirteen lived in PBH and 17 in TBH in the Greater Boston Metro Area.

Results: Social isolation may be a particular challenge of older formerly homeless adults. Veterans in both types of supportive housing struggled with social isolation despite social engagement opportunities available in PBH. Healthcare and transportation issues were important for veterans living in TBH while behavioral health issues were a major factor for those living in both types of housing. Both groups of veterans relied on their case management teams as a means of support and social engagement.

Conclusions: To reduce social isolation and loneliness, more attention is needed by program staff to provide varied social engagement opportunities, from one-on-one to group activities.

Clinical Implications: These findings can help providers recognize issues inhibiting formerly homeless veterans from being successful in supportive housing. Clinicians should consider how veterans’ behavioral health impacts their ability to engage in social activities. Substance use disorder remains a challenge for many veterans interviewed. Its effects impact their perceptions of fellow residents, perceptions of housing, and recovery.

KEYWORDS:

• Aging
• substance abuse
• social work
• homelessness
• loneliness
• supportive housing

Additional information

Funding

This material is based upon work supported by the Department of Veteran Affairs, Veterans Health Administration, VA National Center on Homelessness Among Veterans. The views expressed in this article are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the position or policy of the Department of Veteran Affairs or the U.S. government.