Understanding Homelessness Among Older Adults

Sample size: 1971 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Souza Anita, Tsai Jenny, Pike Kenneth

Primary Institution: University of Washington

The study aims to identify unobservable subgroups within older adults experiencing homelessness using latent class analysis.

The study found four distinct subgroups of older adults experiencing homelessness, each with different health conditions.

The study identified four classes of older adults experiencing homelessness based on their health conditions.
Class 1 had high rates of mental health problems and substance abuse.
Class 2 was characterized by individuals with disabling and physical disabilities.
Class 3 had the lowest proportion of health conditions.
Class 4 had higher than average rates of all health conditions.

The study looked at older people who are homeless and found that they can be grouped into four different types based on their health problems.

The study used a retrospective cohort design and latent class analysis to analyze data from the Homeless Management Information System.

76% male, 49% white, 40% aged 50 or older, 17% veterans.

Access the complete publication on the publisher's website