"Silver Sirens acknowledges the growing number of women over 50 at risk of homelessness and seeks to align with individuals and organisations working to reduce this trend."
It was a moment that challenged my preconceptions about homelessness. There she was, a somewhat well-dressed middle-aged woman, sitting on the curb with a sign pleading for help to pay for shelter. I had grown accustomed to seeing primarily dishevelled men of various ages and, sadly, Indigenous older women in this dire situation, but never someone who appeared to be a middle-class woman.
The sight took me by surprise and served as a potent reminder that homelessness can affect people from all walks of life. It was a sobering realisation that the face of homelessness is not limited to any one particular group or demographic.
As Homelessness Week commences on Monday, August 5th, it is crucial to highlight the often-overlooked issue of housing insecurity among ageing women. Our guiding principle to address homelessness among ageing women encapsulates my vision for a more empathetic and proactive society. While the magnitude of the issue may seem overwhelming, we must take heart that the problem has now begun to receive the attention it deserves.
Multiple factors can make ageing women more vulnerable to the risk of homelessness. While the list below is not exhaustive, it highlights some of the critical issues:
Income Inequality
One significant factor contributing to housing insecurity among ageing women is income inequality. Many women over 50 experience declining income due to reduced working hours, forced retirement, or a lack of career advancement opportunities. This financial instability can make it challenging to afford safe and stable housing.
Divorce
Divorce, especially later in life, can leave women financially vulnerable and at risk of homelessness. This vulnerability may be due to interrupted careers to raise children, lower lifetime earnings, or disproportionate division of assets during divorce.
Caregiving Responsibilities
Ageing women often carry the burden of caregiving for children, grandchildren, or elderly parents. This can lead to additional financial strain and reduced opportunities for full-time employment, further exacerbating housing insecurity.
Inadequate Support Systems
Existing support systems may be inadequate in addressing the unique needs of ageing women. The complexity of navigating government resources, social services, and legal avenues can be overwhelming, especially for those facing housing insecurity.
Addressing the Issue
To combat the issue effectively, it is essential to recognise and acknowledge the intersectionality of ageing, gender, and housing insecurity. By implementing targeted policies, providing financial literacy resources, and offering accessible support systems, we can empower ageing women and work towards eradicating homelessness in our communities.
Having experienced my financial struggles after closing my fashion business, I can empathise with the precarious circumstances that many women face. As debt mounted and financial pressures grew, I came close to experiencing homelessness firsthand. This personal experience provided valuable insight into how a woman's life can suddenly change due to shifts in lifestyle circumstances, leaving her vulnerable and at risk of losing her home.
Addressing the pressing issue of housing insecurity among women necessitates acknowledging and addressing the underlying factors that contribute to this vulnerability. By cultivating a society grounded in empathy, support, and resource provision, we can move closer to a safer, more secure environment for all.
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