Aging-in-Place Challenges for Rural Older Adults: Responses from Service Providers

Most rural older adults tend to age in place, highlighting the need for further study on aging-in-place (AIP) challenges faced by this aging cohort using reliable data sources. This qualitative study explored the challenges rural older adults experience when AIP, based on the perspectives of rural service providers. Sixteen face-to-face interviews were conducted with service providers at their service sites using a semi-structured questionnaire. The voice-recorded interview data was transcribed, and inductive thematic analysis was applied to identify the providers' perspectives. Five key themes emerged: housing support for aging, the need for transportation and avoiding isolation, staying healthy/medical care, finances and affordable living, and challenges in delivering services in rural communities. The study findings highlight educational needs for service providers, rural older adults, and their families, as well as opportunities to support AIP throughout the adult life continuum.