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Population: Seniors
Because of the lack of attention paid to the subject of seniors and homelessness, little is known about this problem. But, from the research that has been done, it is clear that the main causes of homelessness for seniors in Canada are economic and financial. Other factors include: lack of affordable and secure housing; declining physical health, mental health difficulties; relationship breakdown; and, violence and abuse. The risk of homelessness can also be compounded by the death of a spouse, social isolation, discrimination, or lack of knowledge of benefits and services.

Like other segments of society, some seniors live comfortably. But others have major difficulty affording housing and day-to-day necessities of life. Many female seniors have long histories of violence and abuse; they have specific social and health needs that are often overlooked. Some senior men and women, among the homeless, have been or are substance users. For many, it is a legacy of a...
residential school system. Other seniors that suffer with mental and physical disabilities have difficulty functioning and are among the most needy and vulnerable people in Canada.

AUTHOR: Power, Asetha (2008) Homeless Hub.
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A Canadian Homelessness Research Network (CHRN) initiative. The CHRN has received financial support from the Government of Canada’s Homelessness Partnering Strategy and the Social Science and Humanities Research Council of Canada

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