Residential Satisfaction of Rural Older Adults Aging in Place

Abstract

This study explored residential (housing and town) satisfaction of rural older adults aging in place, relating to demographic and housing characteristics. We conducted a structured, face-to-face survey with 149 rural older adults. Regression results revealed that housing satisfaction for rural older adults were significantly related to demographic and housing characteristics, including personal health status, healthy home status, and structure size. Bivariate analysis revealed that satisfaction with a town feature, shopping location, was the most frequently related to demographic and housing variables, followed by cost of living in town; and that health status was most frequently associated with town feature satisfaction. The study results can enhance programs and/or services for older adults aging in rural communities.