A Growing Population of Homeless Seniors
The dream of a carefree retirement fades into a harsh reality for a growing number of seniors in Maricopa County, Arizona. Greg Baxter, at 58 years old, exemplifies this disturbing trend. He envisioned a life of travel and exploration, but instead finds himself navigating the harsh realities of homelessness in downtown Phoenix.
Baxter’s story, like that of many seniors facing homelessness, is one of unexpected hardship. After losing his trailer, a financial sacrifice made to cover his late mother’s medical bills, he was left with no stable housing option.
His physical limitations, including the use of a wheelchair due to diabetes, further complicate his situation. Emergency shelters, often crowded and lacking basic amenities, offer a meager solution at best.
“You sleep on mats on the floor,” Baxter describes, highlighting the stark reality of shelter life.
Baxter’s experience is not an isolated case. Data from Maricopa County paints a concerning picture: over 2,000 individuals experiencing homelessness are aged 55 or older. This figure, from the first year that age demographics were included in the annual homeless count, reveals a significant and growing issue.
“The number of seniors has increased significantly,” confirms Martha Myers, program manager at Central Arizona Shelter Services (CASS).
She recounts the heartbreaking story of a 91-year-old woman forced to live in her car before finding refuge at CASS. The organization is actively working to address this crisis. A permanent senior shelter with 170 beds is under construction, aiming to open later this year. However, the immediate need far outpaces available resources.
A temporary 60-bed shelter run by CASS is currently at capacity, with a waiting list that reflects the overwhelming demand.
“All the rooms are taken,” says Myers, expressing her frustration. She anticipates a worsening situation before improvement, citing the large Baby Boomer generation reaching retirement age.
Several factors contribute to senior homelessness, according to Myers. These include medical issues, memory problems, and a fixed income insufficient to cover rising housing costs.
“The lack of affordable housing,” she emphasizes, “The rent prices just being astronomical.”
Challenges extend beyond finding immediate shelter. The temporary shelter leased by CASS faces closure at the end of March, displacing its current residents once again. Service providers are calling for innovative solutions and preventive measures.
Baxter’s story serves as a stark reminder. “Stay in the house,” he warns. “Save your money and stay.”
His hope for a new trailer and a chance to escape homelessness reflects the yearning for a secure and dignified life that many seniors share.
For those facing homelessness, resources are available. A call to 211 can connect individuals with critical support services in Arizona.
The situation demands immediate attention and ongoing efforts to ensure our most vulnerable citizens have access to safe and affordable housing.
