Supporting an aging population experiencing homelessness: SFU research

Improving supports for older adults who experience homelessness in three major Canadian cities is the focus of an ongoing study led by Simon Fraser University adjunct professor Sarah Canham. The research builds on a pilot study that documented evidence-based interventions in shelter and housing services that support persons with experiences of homelessness for people aged 50 and older in Vancouver, Montreal and Calgary - cities that have seen a dramatic increase in homelessness among the 50+ age group. Their new project will evaluate these promising practices to improve services for those who are experiencing homelessness. -This trend is expected to continue as Canada faces an aging population, increasing urbanization and an ongoing shortage of affordable housing,- says Canham. -Younger baby boomers are particularly at-risk for homelessness due to life course disadvantages associated with competitive job and housing markets and resulting challenges in accumulating assets to protect against housing insecurity. The team will conduct evaluations of 11 shelter/housing practices to determine which are most useful in supporting Aging in the Right Place (AIRP) , focusing on four programs in Calgary and Vancouver and three in Montreal. Researchers will conduct interviews with providers and clients, analyze intakes and conduct environmental audits.