Thousands of aging Americans are taking part in home-sharing programs around the country.

The programs, usually nonprofit, help seniors save money and find companionship.

Organizers say the principal goal is to allow the elderly to stay in their homes rather than move to assisted living or a nursing home.

The programs are not just for seniors, but the typical participant is a divorced or widowed woman over 60 who has extra room in her home and trouble meeting expenses.

Another person who can't find affordable housing shares the rent or mortgage.

The need appears to be growing as baby boomers age and foreclosures and rising rents limit seniors' options.

One New York woman says she'd be on the street if she hadn't taken in a fellow senior.