Intersections of Ageism and Homelessness Among Older Adults: Implications for Policy, Practice, and Research

Abstract

Ageism remains a key issue in the gerontological literature and has long been recognized as a deeply harmful form of discrimination. Despite advances in ageism scholarship related to education, advocacy, and prevention, there are calls for ongoing intersectional examinations of ageism amongst minority groups and across older people facing multiple exclusions. In particular, very little ageism research has considered the experiences of age-based discrimination and prejudice among older people experiencing homelessness. We problematize this gap in knowledge and provide recommendations for policy, practice, and research to address ageist discrimination towards older people experiencing homelessness. Intersections of ageism and homelessness are summarized at four levels: intrapersonal, interpersonal, institutional/community, and societal/structural. Building upon the limited research, we recommend key strategies for supporting and protecting older people experiencing homelessness through the reduction of ageism at each level. We present these insights and recommendations as a call to action for those working in both the aging and housing/homelessness spheres.