UCSF

Aims

To examine the prevalence of and factors associated with unmet need for mental health and substance use treatment in older homeless adults.

Methods

Among 350 homeless adults aged ≥50, we examined prevalence of mental health and substance use problems and treatment. Using logistic regression, we examined factors associated with unmet treatment need.

Results

Among those with a mental health problem, being aged ≥65 was associated with an increased odds, while having a regular healthcare provider and case manager were associated with a decreased odds of having unmet need for mental health treatment. A first homelessness episode at age ≥50 was associated with increased, while spending time in jail/prison or having a case manager was associated with decreased odds of unmet needs for substance use treatment.

Conclusion

Older homeless adults have a high prevalence of unmet behavioral health treatment need. There is a need for targeted services for this population.