Homelessness among older adults in Canada is a growing crisis that receives far too little attention. Many seniors are not only struggling with health issues but also facing unstable housing, leaving them particularly vulnerable. Unlike younger populations, older adults often have limited income, chronic health conditions, and fewer options for long-term support. Despite these challenges, they are frequently overlooked in discussions about homelessness, highlighting the urgent need for targeted policies and resources to address this issue.

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In Canada, individuals aged 50 and above are often categorized as older adults within the homeless community. This classification stems from the accelerated aging process experienced by those without stable housing, leading to health challenges typically seen in much older populations (Government of Canada, 2024).

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The health consequences for older adults experiencing homelessness are severe. Many develop chronic conditions earlier in life and face age-related challenges, such as cognitive impairments, that make survival even more difficult. Research shows that older adults without stable housing are 3.5 times more likely to experience early mortality compared to their housed counterparts (News Medical, 2024).

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Several factors contribute to the heightened vulnerability of seniors to homelessness. Financial insecurity is a major issue, as most live on fixed incomes that make it difficult to keep up with rising housing costs. Chronic illnesses and disabilities further complicate the ability to work or maintain stable housing. Social isolation, often exacerbated by a lack of family support, can leave seniors without help during times of crisis. Meanwhile, a severe shortage of affordable housing options forces many older adults into precarious living situations.

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It's heartbreaking to witness older adults, who have contributed so much to our communities, facing the dual challenges of health issues and unstable living conditions. These individuals often find themselves marginalized, their struggles overlooked, and their needs unmet. This oversight raises a question: have we, as a society, failed to provide the basic necessities of care and attention to our aging population?

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Government of Canada. (2024). Point-in-time counts 2020-2022: Results. Government of Canada. Retrieved from https://housing-infrastructure.canada.ca/homelessness-sans-abri/reports-rapports/pit-counts-dp-2020-2022-results-resultats-eng.html

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News Medical. (2024, May 21). Emerging crisis of homelessness among older adults in Canada. News Medical. Retrieved from https://www.news-medical.net/news/20240521/Emerging-crisis-of-homelessness-among-older-adults-in-Canada.aspx

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