Continuum of Housing for Older Adults

• Pages: 65-68
• Date: 01 March 2025
• Published date: 01 March 2025
• Author: Olivia O'Connell,Kyle S. Page

Bifocal

46 Issue 4

65

Living in a place of our choosing is a

fundamental experience of adulthood and many

of us place great importance on remaining

in our own homes and communities. The phrase

“aging in place” emphasizes this aspect, along with a

multidimensional view of home. Beyond the physical

space, a home provides a sense of identity, autonomy,

connection, and security, among other attributes. Most

older adults relocate infrequently and will remain

in their homes, facilitated by a range of in-home or

community supports and services. Unfortunately,

others may face unforeseen challenges forcing a

relocation. This may happen during a time of great

upheaval or life transition (e.g., death of a partner, loss

of income, inaccessible home after a stroke). Have

you ever considered under what conditions you would

consider a relocation? Awareness of housing options

helps legal professionals navigate the complex

landscape and be better prepared to assist their

clients in planning for transitions or protecting

crucial housing rights. In this article we review

several housing arrangements for older adults.

Due to variability in availability and regulation,

we oer a general introduction and encourage

those working with older adults to explore the

specic options and resources available in their

community.

Homelessness

Homelessness among older adults is a growing

issue, driven by nancial instability, limited hous-

ing options, and accessibility barriers. Ageism

and unemployment often make it dicult for

older adults to regain nancial stability after life

changes such as illness, disability, or the loss of a

loved one. Additionally, xed incomes frequently

fall short of rising housing costs, further exacerbat-

ing the problem. As a result, older adults are now the

fastest-growing demographic among those experienc-

ing homelessness, making up nearly half the homeless

population, with numbers projected to triple by 2030.

There are several terms used to describe individuals

who are currently or at risk of homelessness. Since the

2000s, the term “unhoused” has gained traction as a

way to reduce stigma, emphasize housing as a struc-

tural issue, and recognize that those without housing

may still have communities or spaces they consider

home. Other terms like “housing insecure,” “at immi-

nent risk of homelessness,” or “hidden homelessness”

refer to individuals struggling to pay rent or utilities,

facing frequent moves, living in motels, or are at risk

Continuum of Housing for Older Adults

Olivia O’Connell, MA, The Chicago School

and

Kyle S. Page, PhD, ABPP ,

Commissioner, Commission on Law and Aging