Perceptions of homelessness in older homeless veterans, VA homeless program staff liaisons, and housing intervention providers.

PURPOSE To understand the needs and challenges encountered by older homeless veterans. METHODS We conducted six focus groups of older veterans, two focus groups, and one semi-structured interview of VA staff liaisons, and two focus groups and one semi-structured interview of housing intervention providers. RESULTS Major themes for older veterans: 1) negative homelessness experience; 2) benefits of the structured transitional housing program; 3) importance of peer outreach; and 4) need for age-tailored job placement programs. Major themes for VA staff liaison/housing intervention providers: 1) belief that the transitional housing program has made a positive change; 2) need for individualized criteria to address the unique needs of veterans; 3) distinct differences between older and younger homeless veterans; 4) outreach services; 5) permanent housing issues; and 6) coordination of services. DISCUSSION Compared with younger veterans, older veterans have less social support, greater employment and health challenges, and, perhaps greater motivation to change.