Thomas A. Rich, Louisette A. Boucher, and
Diane Wiatt Rich

In 1991, a survey of older homeless adults in Pinellas and Hillsborough
counties (Tampa Bay area) was conducted. The subjects were interviewed
in a wide variety of community agencies providing services for the homeless.
The purpose of this survey was to provide a better understanding of the
homeless in this region and to guide the development of effective
instructional materials for a better understanding of older homeless adults.

The field survey was administered by clinicians from the Mature Adult
Counseling Center of the Florida Mental Health Institute, University of
South Florida. Interviewing was conducted in homeless shelters and
agencies throughout the seven-day week, both at night and in the daytime
to provide the widest possible range of subjects. The survey instrument was
a composite of several clinical instruments currently used in local agencies
and designed specifically for homeless adults. The survey included basic
background information on reasons for being homeless, attitudes about being
homeless, mental health, and other aspects of homelessness.

One hundred and three older homeless adults (OHA) were identified and
interviewed through their use of services in the homeless networks in the
Tampa Bay area. The services received are shown in Table A. 1, and
numbers show that many clients are receiving multiple services. Obtaining
food either by receiving prepared meals or receiving food that they can
prepare themselves is a high priority. The next four services in order of
importance are assistance with clothing, transitional housing, emergency
shelter, and emergency health care. Fifteen percent report working in a
labor pool and 6.8 percent report employment assistance. The major

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