ABSTRACT

Previous researchers have found high levels of demand for, and utilization of housing programs by the better off elderly. This pattern of self-selectivity is not shown in the present article which examines the determinants of interest in accessory apartment conversion and homesharing among a sample of elderly homeowners in the Baltimore metropolitan area. Respondents who were under financial stress, as indicated by large uninsured medical expenses, and who were in poor health, were especially interested in these programs. The results indicate the importance of implementing accessory apartment conversion and homesharing in conjunction with counseling, low interest housing rehabilitation loans and other ancillary services.