Posted by Skye on August 30, 2025, 5:05 pm Valued Poster
Ironically enough, many of the "forgotten ones" in this demographic likely voted for Trump. And they will only become more forgotten under this administration bent on cutting "waste, fraud & abuse."
"Yes, homelessness among seniors is on the rise in the U.S., with this age group becoming the fastest-growing demographic experiencing homelessness. This crisis is driven by factors like severe housing unaffordability, stagnant fixed incomes, the cost burden of housing for many, and the onset of poor health. Without intervention, estimates suggest the number of older adults experiencing homelessness could nearly triple by 2030.
Key Factors Driving the Rise
Housing Affordability: . Rapidly increasing housing costs outpace the incomes of many seniors, who often rely on Social Security.
Fixed Incomes: . Many older adults live on low, fixed incomes that don't keep up with the cost of living and housing expenses.
Health Issues: . Declining health and associated costs can deplete savings and put older adults at risk of losing their housing.
Lack of Retirement Savings: . Insufficient retirement savings or wages from prolonged economic hardship prevent many from building adequate financial security.
Unique Barriers to Accessing Support: . Older adults may face difficulties accessing shelters due to mobility issues, health conditions like incontinence, or cognitive decline, leading them to become unsheltered.
Statistics and Projections
Record Highs:
U.S. homelessness hit a record high in 2024, with seniors (55+) making up about 20% of the homeless population.
Rapid Growth:
People aged 50 and older are the fastest-growing group experiencing homelessness, increasing from around 10% to nearly 50% of the homeless population in recent decades.
Future Projections:
Without proactive policy changes, estimates suggest the number of older adults experiencing homelessness could nearly triple by 2030.
What Can Be Done
Housing Assistance: . Programs providing financial assistance for rent, security deposits, and eviction prevention are crucial.
Support Services: . Intensive, long-term case management tailored to the needs of older adults is vital. Prevention Programs: . Focus on preventing homelessness in the first place through initiatives like prevention programs and rental subsidies.
Age-Friendly Solutions: . Develop age-friendly shelters and housing options that can accommodate seniors with mobility issues or health conditions."
More importantly, neither does anyone within his top administration. It will continue to increase and the next POTUS, if there is one, ve be stuck with trying to fix something that never should have happened in the first place.