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Addressing Older Adult Homelessness in Missouri: Insights and Actions
Homelessness among older adults is a growing crisis in the United States. A recent report from the University of California, San Francisco's Benioff Homelessness and Housing Initiative titled "Toward Dignity: Understanding Older Adult Homelessness" offers critical insights into this issue. While the study focuses on California, its findings are highly relevant for Missouri as well.
Key Findings
- Aging Homeless Population: Nearly half of single homeless adults in California are age 50 and older, with a median age of 58.
- Racial Disparities: Black Californians are overrepresented, making up 31% of older homeless adults.
- Economic Struggles: High housing costs and low income are primary factors, with a median pre-homelessness income of just $920 per month.
- Health Challenges: Over half reported poor health, and 68% had at least one chronic condition. Mental health issues and substance use were also prevalent.
Recommendations for Missouri
Missouri faces similar challenges, and can draw valuable lessons from California's findings to enhance efforts in combating older adult homelessness:
Increase Access to Affordable Housing
- Expand Housing Choice Vouchers and develop affordable housing units, especially in urban areas like St. Louis and Kansas City.
- Promote policies that prevent discrimination against individuals with prior evictions or criminal records.
Targeted Homelessness Prevention
- Provide financial assistance to those at risk of eviction.
- Offer legal support for housing disputes.
- Integrate social services into healthcare settings and senior centers to identify and assist those at risk.
Enhance Services and Supports
- Expand access to healthcare, mental health services, and substance use treatment.
- Integrate personal care services with housing assistance.
- Provide case management and housing navigation services to help older adults transition from homelessness to stable housing.
For more information about the findings, the full report can viewed here:
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