The resilience of homeless older persons in the City of Tshwane : an exploration through Photovoice

Abstract

This study attempted to explore and describe the resilience of homeless older persons in the City of Tshwane, through a lens of resilience. Eleven participants participated in the study through semi structured interviews and photovoice activities. Conflict, abuse, family disappointment, unemployment, mental health challenges, declining mobility, isolation and a lack of access to services, were identified as risk factors hindering resilience. Religion, support, personal characteristics, special care and socialisation, may act as protective factors which enable resilience. Employment and family re-unification may act as solutions to homelessness. Recommendations in terms of resilience informed bio-psychosocial services to homeless older persons are offered.