Older Adults in Rural Communities

Driven by the Baby Boomer generation, the U.S. population age 65 and older is growing rapidly. The 2020-2024 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year estimates shows 22.0% of the noncore (small rural) area and 19.8% of the micropolitan (large rural) area population is 65 years of age or older, compared to 17.2% of the nation's population as a whole. This results in an increased need for healthcare, long-term care, social services, housing, food, and transportation to support older adults living in rural areas.

This map, based on ACS 5-year estimate data, shows the percent of the population over age 65 by county in shades of green for nonmetro counties.

To ensure older adults can stay active and independent, they need access to a variety of healthcare and other professionals, including primary care doctors or geriatricians (who treat adults age 65 and older), specialists, physical and occupational therapists, nutritionists, pharmacists, home health aides and caregivers, long-term care providers, and social workers, among others. Older adults living in rural communities have lower access to healthcare and supports that they need to age in place.

Resources to Learn More

Demographic Turning Points for the United States: Population Projections for 2020 to 2060
Document
Provides an overview of the size and characteristics of the older adult population, as well as projections about population changes and future projections through 2060.
Author(s): Vespa, J., Medina, L., & Armstrong, D.M.
Organization(s): U.S. Census Bureau
Date: 2/2020

Helping Older Adults Age Well in Rural America
Document
Describes innovative approaches and opportunities to help address healthcare challenges older adults encounter living in rural communities.
Author(s): Hostetter, M. & Klein, S.
Organization(s): The Commonwealth Fund
Date: 11/2023