Older Americans Act: Greatest economic and social needs of rural older adults
Article Publication Date
Summary
The National Rural Health Association has released a new policy brief detailing rural older adults’ economic and social needs, as well as actionable recommendations to enhance their well-being through improved policy measures under the Older Americans Act (OAA).
Rural older adults face limited access to health care and transportation, nutrition and food insecurity, and social isolation at higher rates than their urban peers. Moreover, communities in rural areas often lack the infrastructure to support programs like congregate meal sites and adult day centers that can address health and social needs.
OAA programs have been strengthened in recent years by promoting innovation and flexibility, strengthening program integrity, and better supporting caregivers. However, opportunities remain to emphasize rural-specific programs that can bridge existing gaps and ensure equitable service delivery for older adults in rural communities.
This brief was coauthored by two members of the ADvancing States team: Abby Cox, Senior Managing Director of Aging Policy, and Kathy Greenlee, Senior Director of Elder Justice Initiatives.
Rural older adults face limited access to health care and transportation, nutrition and food insecurity, and social isolation at higher rates than their urban peers. Moreover, communities in rural areas often lack the infrastructure to support programs like congregate meal sites and adult day centers that can address health and social needs.
OAA programs have been strengthened in recent years by promoting innovation and flexibility, strengthening program integrity, and better supporting caregivers. However, opportunities remain to emphasize rural-specific programs that can bridge existing gaps and ensure equitable service delivery for older adults in rural communities.
This brief was coauthored by two members of the ADvancing States team: Abby Cox, Senior Managing Director of Aging Policy, and Kathy Greenlee, Senior Director of Elder Justice Initiatives.