Researcher reminds us that people face homelessness at all stages of life

While the challenges of an aging society are widely recognized, the majority of planning initiatives focus on issues of “healthy aging,” independent living for seniors, or pension policy. The experiences of those whose life courses differ from standard expectations—older homeless people, for example—are often overlooked.

McMaster University’s Amanda Grenier addresses this knowledge gap, studying the intersecting challenges of aging and homelessness. Through her research, Grenier argues that too often, homelessness-reduction strategies are exclusively aimed at youth or working-age populations, excluding people facing homelessness in later life.

Grenier’s work is broadening our knowledge on the impact of homelessness to late life transitions, social care practices in sheltered housing and economic inequality, providing policymakers with evidence-based research to support new programs and approaches.