Older Homelessness: An Emerging Challenge for Cities

Homelessness among older adults is emerging as one of the most significant—and least understood—challenges facing cities today. Older adults are the fastest-growing segment of the population experiencing homelessness, and research suggests that the number of people age 65 and older experiencing homelessness in some locations could nearly triple by 2030. As rising housing costs, fixed incomes, health challenges, and demographic shifts converge, cities are increasingly being called upon to respond to the unique needs of an aging homeless population. 

This conversation will bring together leading researchers and practitioners working on the front lines of elder homelessness to examine the scope of the challenge, emerging evidence, and promising solutions. Speakers will explore the pathways that lead older adults into homelessness, the connections between housing instability, health, and aging, and the ways in which cities, health systems, and service providers can better prevent and respond to homelessness among older adults. 

Attendees will gain insights into the latest research on older homelessness, as well as practical lessons from communities developing innovative approaches to housing, healthcare, supportive services, and cross-sector collaboration. The discussion will also examine broader questions relevant to scholars, policymakers, and practitioners alike, including how cities can prepare for the growing scale of need, measure the effectiveness of interventions, and design systems that promote both housing stability and healthy aging. 

This event is co-hosted by the Bloomberg Center for Cities, the Harvard Urban Health Initiative, and the Initiative on Health and Homelessness at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. Doors open at 3:45 p.m. 

The in-person event is open to Harvard University ID holders only. Virtual event is open to all. Registration is required as space is limited.