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Disrupting discrimination towards older persons experiencing homelessness: A creative and participatory approach

April 17, 2025
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.