Birth Cohort Effect in US Homeless Adults
Author Information
Author(s): Byrne Thomas, Doran Kelly M., Kuhn Randall, Metraux Stephen, Schretzman Maryanne, Treglia Dan, Culhane Dennis P.
Primary Institution: Boston University
Hypothesis
Does the birth cohort effect persist among adults born between 1955 and 1965 in the US homeless population?
Conclusion
The birth cohort effect among homeless adults has persisted, with a significant increase in the proportion of older adults experiencing homelessness.
Supporting Evidence
- Older persons composed a larger share of the sheltered population in 2020 compared to earlier years.
- The share of the homeless population aged 60 years and older in 2020 was 2.6 times higher than in 1990.
- The aging trend is consistent across different US regions.
Takeaway
This study shows that more older people are becoming homeless, especially those born between 1955 and 1965, and this trend has continued over the years.
Methodology
This cross-sectional study used US Census Bureau data to analyze changes in the age distribution of the sheltered adult male population from 1990 to 2020.
Limitations
The study focuses only on the sheltered male population and does not differentiate by household type.
Participant Demographics
The study examines adult males, particularly those born between 1955 and 1965, in the US homeless population.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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