Case Corner: Elder Homelessness

 

The CRC received a referral regarding housing for an elderly man, who was recently homeless as his family was no longer able to provide him with housing. Subsidized housing with intensive home care was recommended for this patient; however, as the housing crisis in Massachusetts continues, there is no quick solution to accessing housing. Subsidized housing waitlists can be very long; therefore it is beneficial to apply early and to multiple housing authorities as waitlist length varies by location ( Housing Advocacy Guide ). Applicants with special status, such as homeless, are given higher priority on housing waitlists. In this instance, locating a shelter that would provide medical care seemed the most appropriate and fastest way for this patient to access subsidized housing.

The CRC began by researching shelters that offer specialty beds for individuals with medical needs. CRC staff learned that a few Boston area shelters have specialty beds for individuals with medical needs. Most shelters require guests to leave during the day. These specialty beds allow shelter guests with medical needs to remain in the shelter during daytime hours with medical monitoring by the Barbara McInnis clinic team (Barbara McInnis House is a temporary medical shelter.)

Additionally, CRC staff called to get more information from the HEARTH program regarding eligibility for Outreach services. Although the outreach workers directly connect with elders while they are in shelter, the social worker at MGH was given the option to send in a referral sheet prior to the patient entering shelter to “flag” him as a candidate for the HEARTH program. Although the patient still needs to self-advocate once in shelter, by alerting the HEARTH team in advance, the hope is that this will expedite access to services. Please see the accompanying story for more information on the HEARTH program.

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