Community Supports for Rural Aging in Place and Independent Living – Models and Innovations

These stories feature model programs and successful rural projects that can serve as a source of ideas and provide lessons others have learned. Some of the projects or programs may no longer be active. Read about the criteria and evidence-base for programs included.

Other Project Examples

Right Side Up Falls Prevention

Updated/reviewed March 2023

• Need: Falling is one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality in adults over the age of 65.
• Intervention: The Right Side Up program was implemented in rural Otter Tail County to address the prevention and management of falls and risk for falls through in-home assessments given by interdisciplinary healthcare professionals and students.
• Results: Short-term outcomes revealed 100% of participants found the visit and recommendations for falls prevention to be helpful, and 78% implemented these recommendations.

Geezers, Gulpers, and Gardeners

Updated/reviewed September 2022

• Need: Suicide rates among white males age 65 and older have been rising in North Carolina. Challenges include losing friends, illnesses, and the loss of independence – all of which can lead to isolation and depression.
• Intervention: The Chatham County Council on Aging of North Carolina started Geezers, Gulpers, and Gardeners (3G Group) to connect retired men in need of male friends and mutual support.
• Results: Men in similar stages of life and varying backgrounds are forming friendships, engaging in activities, and taking care of their mental health.

SMiles Senior Transportation

Updated/reviewed August 2022

• Need: To provide transportation to rural seniors who are no longer able to drive.
• Intervention: SMiles, a rural senior transportation program, was implemented in Blount County, Tennessee.
• Results: Since 2013, SMiles has provided over 41,500 rides and errands to its rural seniors.

North Carolina Innovative Approaches Initiative

Updated/reviewed July 2022

• Need: Children and youth with special healthcare needs (CYSHCN) face many barriers to coordinated, comprehensive, and culturally competent healthcare.
• Intervention: The North Carolina Innovative Approaches (IA) Initiative works with families of CYSHCN and other community leaders to make systems changes in the state's healthcare system.
• Results: IA has impacted 22 counties and has had a positive impact on increasing family engagement and community capacity for systems changes.

Community Healthcare Integrated Paramedicine Program (CHIPP)

Updated/reviewed January 2022

• Need: To reduce 911 use and improve older adults' health in rural Santa Cruz County, Arizona.
• Intervention: Community paramedics made scheduled visits to patients and connected them to other community resources.
• Results: CHIPP assisted over 150 people, and 911 calls decreased.

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