Despite access to Medicare, Social Security, and other safety nets, older adults are finding it increasingly difficult to afford housing due to inflation, tax increases, and other financial issues. Some seniors develop dementia and other neurological disorders, making it difficult for them to manage their finances and secure safe housing, increasing their risk of homelessness.
According to the National Alliance to End Homelessness, there were over 580,000 homeless people in the United States as of January 2020. The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated the problem by disrupting the economy, leaving thousands of people jobless and unable to afford food, shelter, and other basic necessities.
Emergency housing programs provide a safe place for homeless people to stay and extra assistance to help residents transition to other housing options, making them a valuable resource for older adults experiencing homelessness. Emergency shelters are typically the first place people go when they are experiencing a housing crisis, according to United to End Homelessness.
Individuals who stay in an emergency shelter receive services to help them stabilize their social and financial situations. This assistance makes it easier to transition to a transitional shelter or other types of non-emergency housing. After losing a job, having a physical altercation with another member of their household, or losing their home due to foreclosure or failure to pay property taxes, an older adult may require emergency housing.
The following guide examines the problem of homelessness among older adults and offers a comprehensive list of emergency housing resources. These programs can help your loved one find safe housing in your area. To learn more you can go to this link: https://www.seniorhousingnet.com/advice-and-planning/emergency-housing-guide