217324 Characteristics of homelessness among the older veteran population

Wednesday, November 10, 2010 : 9:00 AM - 9:15 AM

Lisa M. Brown, PhD , Department of Aging and Mental Health, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL
Kathryn Frahm, PhD , Department of Aging and Mental Health, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL
Lawrence Schonfeld, PhD , Department of Aging and Mental Health, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL
Victor Molinari, PhD , Department of Aging and Mental Health, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL
John Schinka, PhD , National Center on Homelessness among Veterans, Tampa, FL
Roger Casey, PhD , National Center on Homeless Among Veterans, Tampa, FL
It is estimated that over 135,000 veterans experienced homelessness on any given day during 2008. These individuals experience high rates of medical, emotional, substance abuse, and legal and financial problems. At present, approximately 21% of homeless veterans are age 55 years and older. Older adults constitute a largely unrecognized subgroup of the homeless veterans' population. Although this older age-group is especially vulnerable to experiencing negative consequences related to homelessness due to chronic, long-lasting physical and mental health problems and a longer history of being homeless, few studies have examined age-related differences. Prior studies involving all homeless individuals have found differences in the needs and preferences of younger and older homeless populations. The present study extends previous research to the veteran population and examines differences between younger and older homeless veterans seeking services from VA providers to determine specific areas that are particularly problematic for older veterans. Using multi-site data collected from 103 service providers, this study includes the results of analyses intake, treatment services, and program discharge information on over 21,000 homeless veterans. Specific areas of interest include type and severity of medical issues, psychiatric and substance abuse problems, length and cost of treatment provided, living arrangements following VA services, and any follow up services provided to veterans after program discharge. Comparisons with younger homeless veterans will be elaborated. Findings from this study will be used to inform VA programs and services designed for homeless veterans.

Learning Areas:
Epidemiology
Social and behavioral sciences

Learning Objectives:
Identify at least two importance differences in intake or treatment characteristics or results between older and younger homeless veterans

Keywords: Homeless, Veterans

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Qualified on the content I am responsible for because: I am Associate Professor of Aging and Mental Health with funding and numerous publications in aging.
Any relevant financial relationships? No

I agree to comply with the American Public Health Association Conflict of Interest and Commercial Support Guidelines, and to disclose to the participants any off-label or experimental uses of a commercial product or service discussed in my presentation.