Healthy Aging in Place: Supporting Rural Seniors’ Health Needs

Juanita R. Bacsu; Bonnie Jeffery; Shanthi Johnson; Diane Martz; Nuelle Novik; Sylvia Abonyi

doi:10.14574/ojrnhc.v12i2.52

Vol. 12 No. 2 (2012)

Research Articles

Healthy Aging in Place: Supporting Rural Seniors’ Health Needs

Published 2012-11-25

Juanita R. Bacsu
Bonnie Jeffery
Shanthi Johnson
Diane Martz
Nuelle Novik
Sylvia Abonyi

Juanita R. Bacsu
University of Saskatchewan

Bonnie Jeffery
University of Regina

Shanthi Johnson
University of Regina

Diane Martz
University of Saskatchewan

Nuelle Novik
University of Regina

Sylvia Abonyi
University of Saskatchewan

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Abstract

Purpose
To examine the key determinants that support healthy aging in rural communities.
Sample
Forty- two participants aged 65 and older were recruited from two rural communities in Saskatchewan, Canada.
Methods
Using an ethnographic methodological approach, data was collected through semi-structured interviews, field notes and participant observation notes. Cantor’s (1989) Social Care Model was used as the theoretical framework for exploring the supports that facilitate rural healthy aging.
Findings
Healthy aging among rural seniors extends significantly beyond access to physicians and formal health care. Eight key themes related to healthy aging were identified: housing; transportation; healthcare; finances; care giving; falls; rural communities; and support systems.
Conclusions
While there is evidence of poor health among rural seniors, little research has examined healthy aging or the determinants that facilitate healthy aging in rural communities. In addressing rural seniors’ health needs, this study provides a fundamental basis for developing effective interventions and innovative public policy options to support rural healthy aging.

Keywords: Rural Health, Social Support, Rural Aging, Public Policy, Disparities

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Author Biography

Juanita R. Bacsu

Juanita Bacsu, MA
PhD student, Community Health and Epidemiology, University of Saskatchewan
Saskatchewan Population Health and Evaluation Research Unit, University of Saskatchewan

Bonnie Jeffery

Bonnie Jeffery, PhD
Faculty of Social Work, University of Regina
Director, Saskatchewan Population Health and Evaluation Research Unit

Shanthi Johnson

Shanthi Johnson, PhD
Faculty of Kinesiology and Health Studies, University of Regina
Saskatchewan Population Health and Evaluation Research Unit, University of Regina

Diane Martz

Diane Martz, PhD
Research Ethics, University of Saskatchewan
Saskatchewan Population Health and Evaluation Research Unit, University of Saskatchewan

Nuelle Novik

Nuelle Novik, PhD
Faculty of Social Work, University of Regina

Sylvia Abonyi

Sylvia Abonyi, PhD
Community Health and Epidemiology, University of Saskatchewan
Saskatchewan Population Health and Research Unit, University of Saskatchewan