Public Health Strategies for Older Adult Homelessness

Homelessness in later life is an important public health issue. Research into the causes of homelessness in older adults and the needs of this vulnerable population are scarce. Both research and public policy on homelessness have focused primarily on younger homeless people and, in particular, on the increasing numbers of families with children. This session will define older homelessness, prevalence of older homelessness, risk factors, common physiological health problems, and common mental health issues with older adults who are homeless.

Strategies to assist public health professionals to care for older adults who are homeless or at risk for homelessness and to work with this population effectively will be reviewed. Several approaches will be suggested including preventing elder homelessness, advocating to end elder homelessness and caring for those who are homeless. Diversity within the homeless population presents numerous challenges for service delivery. The development of policies and services for the homeless is complex.

A three tier approach to service delivery for the older homeless population will be presented. Both macro and micro level factors need to be considered when examining the causes of homelessness among older adults as well as strategies and interventions for professionals to assist this population.

The solution to the human and economic dilemma of long term care for older adults cannot be answered by fragmented programs of shelters, homeless health care programs and drop in centers. Federal policy is needed that will encourage fair and equitable housing and health care for all older adults.