New Study on Homeless Older Adults

March 2008

Shelter Partnership has released a new study on homeless older adults (adults 62 years and older). The unique study surveys this vulnerable population for the first time and offers specific solutions to address the growing problem. Ruth Schwartz, Executive Director of Shelter Partnership, explains that "On any given night in LA County, there are between 3,000 and 4,000 older adults who are homeless. Over 60% of them have a disability and one-third to one-half or possibly more are chronically homeless. The solution to their homelessness is the development and greater access to permanent, supportive housing that is affordable."

Some other key findings of the study, which is described in more detail here, are that at least one-third and perhaps as many as one-half or more of homeless older adults are chronically homeless, and that four in ten homeless older adults have proceeded beyond high school, including 24% reporting some college education.

Schwartz, also founder Shelter Partnership, was recently named "Woman of the Year" by the 22nd Senatorial District. "The Woman of the Year Award provides me with the opportunity to honor an exceptional woman who has devoted more than 20 years to addressing the complex housing, social, and health care needs of people who have the least in our society"”men, women and children who are homeless, " said Senator Gilbert Cedillo.

Based in Los Angeles, Shelter Partnership, Inc. is a non-profit organization dedicated to ending homelessness by assisting in the development of short-term and transitional housing programs, permanent housing, and supportive services for the homeless and potentially homeless throughout Los Angeles County. Since 1985, Shelter Partnership has been a leader in the fight against homelessness in L.A.

Download Study (PDF)