Experiences of intersectional ageism and homelessness among older persons

Abstract  

Homelessness, housing insecurity, and shelter use continue to increase among people aged 55+ in North America, underscoring an ongoing need for age-inclusive supports in the housing/homelessness sector. Despite these trends, older persons experiencing homelessness (OPEH) continue to experience significant barriers to housing and supports, including discrimination based on age, housing status, and other social locations. Intersections of ageism, homeism (i.e., discrimination based on housing status), racism, and other forms of discrimination systematically exclude OPEH from securing housing, work, and healthcare. Yet, little to no research has directly considered the impacts of intersectional ageism and homeism in the lives of OPEH. To begin addressing this gap in knowledge we present learnings from a national community-based participatory study of homelessness and housing insecurity among older persons, as well as a community-engagement companion project aimed as dismantling discrimination towards OPEH. Findings from lived experts of homelessness and a series of community events indicate that OPEH have experienced intersectional ageism and homeism at multiple levels (e.g., internalized, interpersonal, structural). Participants report that ageist policies and practices, such as age eligibility restrictions on housing and ‘renovictions’, compound with harmful stereotypes about who is homeless and why, which prevent OPEH from exiting homelessness. Age-inclusive housing policies, practices, and advocacy are urgently needed to support housing insecure older persons in Canada. We conclude by outlining key recommendations for inclusive policy, practice, and scholarship that can disrupt intersectional discrimination towards OPEH and promote age-supportive housing.