ABSTRACT
“Rural America” is a deceivingly simple term for a diverse assortment of spaces and places. Aging populations in rural areas are generally understood to live in a wide range of smaller, dispersed, less-densely populated, and under-serviced settlements. The majority of rural populations are clustered in the vicinity of metro areas given historical settlement on farms and in mill towns to produce goods for nearby urban centers. Given increased risk for multiple health conditions and reduced mobility, older adults may be particularly susceptible to and influenced by their rural surroundings. Commonly cited geographic challenges are that distances to destinations are greater and places more isolated. Gentrifying rural areas across the United States tend to be recreation-dense and high-amenity destinations with in-migration of retiring and aging baby boomers. Housing used seasonally and/or for recreation purposes may become more regular or permanent as residents retire. These homes may need to be retrofitted if residents become less independent given physical and/or cognitive limitations.
