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While experiences of later-life homelessness are known to vary, classification of shelter, housing and service models that meet the diverse needs of older people with experiences of homelessness (OPEH) are limited. To address this gap, a scoping review was conducted of shelter/housing options, supports and interventions for OPEH. Fourteen databases were searched for English-language peer-reviewed and/or empirical literature published between 1999 and 2019, resulting in the inclusion of 22 sources. Through a collaborative, iterative process of reading, discussing and coding, data extracted from the studies were organised into six models: (1) long-term care, (2) permanent supportive housing (PSH), including PSH delivered through Housing First, (3) supported housing, (4) transitional housing, (5) emergency shelter settings with health and social supports, and (6) case management and outreach. Programme descriptions and OPEH outcomes are described and contribute to our understanding that multiple shelter/housing options are needed to support diverse OPEH. The categorised models are considered alongside existing 'ageing in place' research, which largely focuses on older adults who are housed. Through extending discussions of ageing in the 'right' place to diverse OPEH, additional considerations are offered. Future research should explore distinct sub-populations of OPEH and how individual-level supports for ageing in place must attend to mezzo- and macro-level systems and policies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Limited research has identified the types of shelter/housing and supports for the growing population of older people experiencing homelessness (OPEH) and the extent to which existing models align with their needs. To redress this gap, we conducted an environmental scan and three World Café workshops to identify and characterize shelter/housing models for OPEH in Montreal, Calgary, and Vancouver (Canada). Fifty-two models were identified and categorized into six shelter/housing types based on the program length of stay and level of health and social supports provided onsite: (1) Emergency, transitional, or temporary shelter/housing with supports; (2) Independent housing with offsite community-based supports; (3) Supported independent housing with onsite, non-medical supports; (4) Permanent supportive housing with onsite medical support and/or specialized services; (5) Long-term care for individuals with complex health needs and; (6) Palliative care/hospice, offering end-of-life services. Models that met the unique needs of OPEH had coordinated supports, social and recreational programming, assistance with daily tasks, and had a person-centered, harm-reduction approach to care. This typology of shelter/housing models offers a basis from which local and regional governments can audit their existing shelter/housing options and determine where there may be gaps in supporting OPEH. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Estimates of the number of homeless older adults are highly variable, but the proportion is expected to increase in Western countries as the general population ages. Much of the current literature on homelessness among older adults focuses on the causes of homelessness in later life, along with the health outcomes and service needs of this population. However, there is a dearth of research investigating potential shelter/housing solutions specific to homeless older adults that would meet their unique needs. This scoping review investigated the needs for housing homeless older adults and potential solutions. Based on thematic analysis of findings from 19 sources of primary research, we developed a conceptual model that suggests distinct, senior-specific needs and shelter/housing solutions of both newly and chronically homeless older adults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite widespread use and acceptance of alcohol, discussions of age-related changes that impact alcohol consumption behaviors are rare. The objective of this community-engaged qualitative research study was to gain insight into how to promote knowledge dissemination regarding newly developed low-risk drinking guidelines for older adults. A convenience sample of 66 older adults and service providers participated in three Knowledge Café dialogue workshops and discussed their opinions about alcohol use in later life and ideas for sharing alcohol-related research evidence with the community. Participants discussed (a) low-risk drinking knowledge dissemination, (b) personal choice in drinking alcohol and adherence to low-risk drinking guidelines, and (c) preferences for engaging in discussions about alcohol use. Community dialogues fostered knowledge dissemination while participants engaged in rich conversations about a rarely discussed topic. Sharing evidence-based clinical advice with community stakeholders through dialogue events offers an innovative opportunity for health promotion efforts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to update our understandings of older adults' experiences and perceptions of alcohol use. Taking a community-based research approach, three Knowledge Café workshops hosted 66 older adults and service providers in Vancouver, BC. Thematic analysis identified three overarching categories: (a) reasons older adults use alcohol, including out of habit, social expectations, or to self-medicate; (b) personal experiences of alcohol use, including reduced consumption over time as a result of the cost of alcohol, the physical effects, and increased knowledge about the effects of alcohol; and (c) older adults' perceptions of alcohol use outcomes, including positive outcomes from drinking in moderation and negative outcomes that can worsen one's health, lead to tolerance, and harm others. Developing and promoting healthy drinking behaviours in later life is needed as the general population continues to age.