Older Women in Single Room Occupant (SRO) Hotels: A Seattle Profile

Abstract

Life histories and daily routines of 16 women over the age of 55 living in 10 Seattle single room occupant (SRO) hotels were studied using both observational and interviewing methods. The study reveals a population of elderly women with work histories in trades traditionally dominated by men, with a life-style based on mobility, extreme individualism, and independence. Residence in SROs appears to be part of a natural life history progression for these women rather than a result of social pathology. The study discusses implications of these findings for interpreting current social service utilization patterns of SRO women and for planning service delivery to this population.