Ireland's Growing Crisis: Over 260 Older Adults in Emergency Accommodation

A NEW REPORT has warned that Ireland is facing a growing crisis of older adults experiencing homelessness, driven by soaring rents, inadequate pensions and a lack of age-friendly housing. The report, published today by Simon Communities in partnership with Galway Simon Community, examined homelessness in later life and highlights significant gaps in policy and service provision. It found that assumptions that older people are likely to own their homes or have secure tenancies no longer reflect reality, with increasing numbers reliant on the private rental market at a time of rapidly rising rents and house prices. According to the latest figures, 267 people aged over 65 are currently living in emergency accommodation nationwide, with the number more than doubling over the past five years. The report links homelessness in later life to a mix of structural pressures and individual factors, including low lifetime earnings, illness, disability, bereavement and relationship breakdown. It also warned that homelessness at an older age has severe and interconnected impacts on physical health, mental wellbeing and social inclusion. Advertisement The report cautioned that Ireland risks repeating the experience of countries such as the United States, where older-age homelessness has become deeply entrenched, but said decisive action now could prevent a far more serious crisis. The report sets out six key policy recommendations, including stronger national leadership, better legal protections against housing loss, increased resourcing for homeless services, and a targeted strategy to expand access to age-friendly housing. It was officially launched in Galway earlier today. Speaking at the launch, President Catherine Connolly said that the report ”shines a much-needed spotlight” on the growing number of older people experiencing homelessness in Ireland, adding that “particular attention should be given to the recommendations and actions.” Dr Carol Baumann, CEO, Galway Simon Community, warned at the launch that “without intervention, the situation will continue to deteriorate.” “However, there remains a window of opportunity. The current number of older people experiencing homelessness in Ireland is still relatively low, and as such, meaningful change is both possible and achievable.” “With increased political will, more focused leadership, and a commitment to evidence-based, compassionate policy, Ireland can avoid replicating the mistakes seen elsewhere,” Baumann added.