Housing costs are straining senior adults. Local leaders say people’s spare bedrooms could help.

High housing costs are straining senior adults everywhere. Local leaders say people spare bedrooms could be part of the solution. I'm Toby Cox. This is WHRO News. In Virginia, there are about 12 spare bedrooms for every older adult spending more than the recommended amount on rent. Candice Smith says that's an opportunity. She runs the program Homshare Oregon, which connects senior homeowners with other seniors who need housing. Home sharing is an incredibly viable way to keep people in their homes and their communities where they want to be. She says the arrangement is a win-win. The renter gets a home and the homeowner gets financial relief. Both get the benefit of companionship. Julie Dixon with the Planning Council on Hampton Roads says the council and senior services of southeastern Virginia are discussing how the model in Oregon could be replicated locally. It's going to need some dedicated staff and time and finding some extra funding. But she says investing in a similar program could help struggling seniors in the region stay housed. Toby Cox, WHRO News.