Florida Woman, 78, Lives in Her Car as More Seniors Face Homelessness

A Growing Crisis: Homelessness Among Seniors in Florida

Carolyn, a 78-year-old South Florida resident, is living in her car because she can’t afford a home. At an age when many people are enjoying retirement, Carolyn’s story highlights a growing crisis across the country — homelessness among seniors. What was once considered a problem of younger populations is now increasingly affecting older Americans, particularly in states like Florida.

“I look at it as a journey. I’ve had many journeys in my life,” Carolyn told 7News in a recent report. Her journey has led her to live in her vehicle for two months, relying solely on her Social Security benefits for income. While the average retired worker collects about $2,000 a month, that amount is often not enough to cover housing costs, especially in areas with high rents.

Carolyn has sold many of her possessions to make ends meet, but it still isn’t enough. She sleeps upright in her car, which causes swelling in her legs and ankles. To save money, she buys jugs of water and eats just one meal a day for around $2.02. Despite these hardships, she remains resilient and hopeful.

The Face of Homelessness Is Changing

Carolyn is not alone. A growing number of seniors in Florida are grappling with homelessness, and the situation is expected to worsen in the coming years. In Miami-Dade County, the percentage of homeless individuals aged 65 and older has more than doubled from 8% in 2019 to 14% in 2024. Experts predict this number could reach 22% by 2030.

Cassandra Rhett, Housing and Social Services Manager for the City of Pompano Beach, is working to find permanent housing for Carolyn. She emphasizes that anyone could end up in a similar situation, regardless of their background or circumstances.

Ron Book, chairman of the Miami-Dade County Homeless Trust, warns that homeless seniors are incredibly vulnerable. “If you put vulnerable elderly on the street, they’re going to die earlier,” he said. He urges the community to think about their loved ones being homeless for the first time.

Why Are Seniors Becoming Homeless?

There are several reasons why older Americans are facing homelessness. Many retirees only have Social Security to rely on, which may not be sufficient to cover basic living expenses. According to a 2024 AARP survey, 20% of Americans aged 50 and over have no retirement savings. Meanwhile, the average monthly rent for a one-bedroom unit in the U.S. is just under $1,600, making it difficult for those with limited incomes to afford housing.

Health care costs also play a significant role. As people age, medical expenses tend to rise, and those with limited incomes often have to choose between paying for medication and other essential bills. This financial strain can quickly lead to homelessness.

Resources and Support for Seniors in Need

For seniors at risk of homelessness, accessing support is crucial. The Department of Housing and Urban Development offers an online tool to help people find emergency shelter, food pantries, and health clinics. Additionally, there are state-specific resources available to assist those in need.

Despite these options, many seniors remain unaware of the help that’s available. Carolyn hopes sharing her story will raise awareness about the issue and encourage others to seek assistance if needed.

A Call to Action

Homelessness among seniors is a growing concern that requires immediate attention. With the aging population and rising costs of living, more and more older Americans are finding themselves in precarious situations. It’s important for communities to come together and support those in need, ensuring that no one has to face homelessness in their golden years.

As the number of homeless seniors continues to rise, it’s clear that this issue affects us all. Whether it’s a neighbor, a family member, or someone we don’t know, the impact of homelessness on seniors is a challenge that demands action and compassion.