Delivering services to older persons experiencing homelessness: Providers’ perspectives of what does and does not work

Weldrick, R., Canham, S.L., Sussman, T., Walsh, C.A., Cormier, E., & Mahmood, A. (2023). Delivering services to older persons experiencing homelessness: Providers’ perspectives of what does and does not work. Journal of Gerontological Social Work, 66(1), 29-42. doi:10.1080/01634372.2022.2087128

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ABSTRACT

Older people with experiences of homelessness (OPEH) tend to experience more complex health, social, and psychological issues than people experiencing homelessness at younger ages. Simultaneously, many housing resources (e.g., shelters, temporary housing) are often ill equipped to meet the needs of OPEH. As such, OPEH are often unable to age in the right place (AIRP) – that is, in a place that supports unique needs and vulnerabilities. However, several promising practices exist that deliver housing and services tailored to OPEH. To investigate the aspects of housing and shelter that both promote and impede AIRP for OPEH, this study examines the delivery of services in three such promising practices from the perspective of service providers. Findings from fifteen qualitative interviews revealed three overarching themes: 1) barriers to providing individualized support (e.g., staff turnover); 2) shifting contexts and structures (e.g., housing market changes); and 3) mechanisms of success (e.g., facilitating smooth transitions into permanent housing). These findings provide evidence to support the refinement of service delivery to promote AIRP for OPEH. In doing so, these insights can help to elevate promising practices to the level of best practice.

Keywords:

Homelessness; older adult; shelter; housing; aging in the right place