Disrupting discrimination towards older persons experiencing homelessness: A creative and participatory approach
Weldrick, R., & Canham, S. L. (2025, April 8). Disrupting discrimination towards older persons experiencing homelessness: A creative and participatory approach [Paper presentation]. 2025 Joint Conference of the European and North American Networks on Aging, Lleida, Spain. |
Abstract
Older persons experiencing homelessness (OPEH) face intersectional discrimination linked to age and housing status. Discrimination, alongside harmful stereotypes about homelessness, are re-produced in a range of settings. Consequently, there is significant need for advocacy efforts that disrupt stereotypes and discrimination towards people experiencing homelessness across the lifecourse. In response, we co-created a multi-method research and knowledge mobilization project alongside a team of lived expertise advisors. Collectively, we developed a series of “stereotype cards” – postcard-sized visual resources featuring myths and stereotypes about homelessness on one side, and evidence-based counternarratives that challenge these stereotypes on the opposite side. The cards were used as discussion prompts at a series of public events featuring OPEH speakers and a mobile art exhibit. Findings show that creative outputs can effectively challenge stereotypes and shift perspectives about homelessness and aging. We offer recommendations for future research and engagement involving creative co-development.