Impacts of health insurance on older adults with histories of homelessness

The purpose of this study is to examine the relationship between having health insurance and securing unsubsidized housing among older adults with histories of homelessness. This study also examined individual and clinical factors that may contribute to having health insurance and establishing residency without housing assistance. Using data from the 2019 Tampa Hillsborough Homeless Initiative, we identified 1,204 older adults aged 55 and over with histories of homelessness. Age, gender, physical disabilities, and mental health conditions were significant factors associated with having health insurance. After controlling for demographic characteristics and clinical factors, those who were covered by health insurance were more likely to secure unsubsidized housing (p=.011). In addition, those who reported alcohol use were less likely to reside in unsubsidized housing (p=.001). Findings from this study support the importance of having health insurance to support the transition from a state of homelessness to living within the community.