Summary
An increasing number of older Americans are facing homelessness, and healthcare organizations are stepping in to provide help. The PACE Organization of Rhode Island, which is supported by Medicaid and Medicare, is one example of a group helping older adults by offering housing solutions. Rising housing costs and recent federal budget cuts affecting Medicaid are challenges these organizations must navigate.
Key Facts
- An increasing number of older Americans are experiencing homelessness.
- The PACE Organization of Rhode Island helps older adults by finding housing, funded by Medicaid and Medicare.
- Many healthcare groups now recognize that stable housing is essential for good health.
- In the U.S., 20% of homeless people in 2024 were aged 55 or older.
- The older homeless population rose by 6% from the previous year.
- The number of men over 60 in shelters nearly tripled from 2010 to 2020.
- President Donald Trump's recent federal budget cuts Medicaid, affecting support for low-income and disabled people.
