In the United States, there are approximately 55 million people over the age of 65, and 5 million of them live below the poverty line. Because 65 is considered the retirement age for “senior citizens,” social security benefits become available at that age, but studies have shown a clear upward trend in the proportion of people between the ages of 50 and 64 experiencing homelessness. This issue of Healing Hands will take a look at the complex challenges faced by older adults experiencing homelessness, and the role of different care providers in supporting them.
