Adapting to old age in rural Britain

The data on which this article is based were collected to inform and guide policy for rural social service provision. Over 500 elderly persons were interviewed in their own homes using a questionnaire schedule. Over the last two decades, the availability and support of the family for the elderly has remained in debate, some writers suggesting that urbanization and industrialization have led to the weakening of family support, others claiming that the family still functions well. At the same time, the ability of the elderly to change and adapt has been questioned. In rural and less developed regions concern has been expressed that the impact of reductions in or lack of services fall hardest on the elderly. This article looks at ways in which the elderly in a remote rural area of Britain adapt to the problems of sparsity, lack of adequate public transportation, migration in and out of the region and the reality of increasing age. It shows that the elderly are capable of adaptation and have a tolerance for isolation, and that changes in residence, household composition, and methods of access are made over time. The article presents evidence of commitment on the part of others towards the elderly and creative adaptations on the part of the elderly to provide necessary support.