Innovativeness and Acceptance of Housing Options among the Elderly

Abstract

Increases in the elderly population and demands on the resources that the elderly have suggest that housing alternatives might provide options to maintain independence and enhance quality of life for older adults. However, acceptance of these alternatives may be influenced by the elderly’s level of innovativeness in relation to housing. Roger’s (1983) diffusion of innovation theory provides a basis for examining attitudes that might indicate innovativeness and influence acceptance. The purpose of this study was to examine housing innovativeness among a probability sample of 452 females. A modified scale on housing innovativeness developed by Gruber et al. (1990) was factor analyzed and revealed a similar pattern while explaining 59.6% of the variance: Factor 1 was acceptance of new housing types; Factor 2 was willingness to take a chance; and Factor 3 was acceptance of new ideas. Analysis of Variance revealed significant differences on: Factor 1 scores based upon income, and education; Factor 2 scores based upon income, education, and marital status; and Factor 3 scores based upon income and marital status. Age and current housing type of respondent had no indicated effect on innovation scores. Those with more education and income and who are married are more innovative and are more willing to accept alternative housing types.

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Notes on contributors

Michael K. Johnson

Michael Johnson is an Assistant Professor and Julia O. Beamish is an Associate Professor in the Department of Housing, Interior Design, and Resource Management, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University.

Julia O. Beamish

Michael Johnson is an Assistant Professor and Julia O. Beamish is an Associate Professor in the Department of Housing, Interior Design, and Resource Management, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University.