Rising Homelessness Among Seniors: Innovative Shelter Solutions

The number of homeless seniors in the United States is increasing, with individuals aged 65 and older representing the fastest-growing segment of the homeless population. Many older adults are experiencing homelessness for the first time due to various factors, including health issues like dementia, which can lead to eviction from their homes. Traditional homeless shelters often lack the necessary accommodations for this demographic, prompting the development of specialized shelters like the Medically Vulnerable People (MVP) shelter in Sandy, Utah.

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The MVP shelter caters specifically to individuals aged 62 and older, providing semiprivate rooms equipped for mobility needs and on-site medical care. Unlike conventional shelters, the MVP shelter offers a supportive environment where residents can receive immediate medical attention from emergency medical technicians and specialized case managers. This model is designed to address the unique challenges faced by older adults, such as managing medications and accessing healthcare services.

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Baleigh Dellos, the shelter manager for The Road Home, emphasizes that many residents require assistance with medication management, which is crucial for stabilizing their health conditions. The shelter collaborates with the Fourth Street Clinic to ensure residents have access to necessary medical care, including physical therapy and regular visits from primary care doctors.

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The MVP shelter has demonstrated significant success, with over 80% of its residents transitioning to stable or permanent housing within a year. In its first 11 months of operation in 2025, the shelter successfully housed 36 older adults. However, the demand for such specialized facilities remains high, with a waitlist of around 200 individuals, highlighting the urgent need for more resources to support this vulnerable population.

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Jacob Torner, vice president of programs for the TaskForce for Ending Homelessness in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, notes similar successes at their Elder Haven shelter. These shelters not only provide immediate relief but also serve as a critical step towards long-term stability for older adults.

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Despite the positive outcomes, challenges persist. Many traditional shelters are ill-equipped to handle the complex medical needs of older adults, which can pose risks to both residents and staff. Caitlin Synovec, assistant director of the National Health Care for the Homeless Council, points out that denying older individuals access to shelter due to health issues can have dire consequences, especially in cold-weather states.

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• “I was able to get clean. It took me a couple months, but I just kept plucking away,” — Jeff Gregg, MVP Shelter Resident

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• “Their medications get jacked when they're in their camps," Haroldsen said.” — Matt Haroldsen, Fourth Street Clinic

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As the number of homeless seniors continues to rise, innovative shelter models like the MVP shelter are proving essential in addressing their unique needs. By providing medical care and supportive services, these shelters not only offer immediate refuge but also pave the way for long-term housing stability. The ongoing demand for such facilities underscores the critical need for expanded resources to support older adults facing homelessness across the nation.

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