Aging & Society: Eighth Interdisciplinary Conference

Abstract

Studies have shown that older people prefer to continue living in their own home and community as they age; however, this is dependent upon available services and social support. In Australia about two thirds of people will age at home. The Australian government provides home care packages to provide support to age in place; however, in rural areas not all services are available. The lack of employment opportunities in rural areas often results in family residing at a distance reducing available social support. A multiple embedded case study was undertaken in three diverse rural communities. Older rural residents aging in place were interviewed about their aging experience and plans for their future when they review available social support. Social networks were then visually depicted with the use of ecomaps and network members were then interviewed. Results show that aging is a time of change and reflection and there is a need for more discussion within these networks when it comes to future planning. It is hoped that results will inform policies that help support aging in place for rural residents.