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
Men's Conversation Group
Updated/reviewed November 2025
- Need: Suicide rates among men 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: Chatham County Aging Services of North Carolina started the Men's Conversation 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.
Age-Friendly and Dementia-Friendly Winnemucca
Updated/reviewed August 2025
- Need: To educate rural community members about Alzheimer's disease and other dementias and to support older adults with dementia and caregivers in need.
- Intervention: A community group formed in Winnemucca, Nevada, to discuss topics like health, housing, social events, community improvement, education, and transportation for older adults. The group also provides outreach to older adults, caregiver support, and a variety of educational activities and events.
- Results: The group's efforts have led to many changes for community welfare and safety as well as opportunities for education and activities.
Hospital2Home
Updated/reviewed April 2024
- Need: To prevent hospital readmissions and improve the recovery process for older adults in rural southern Ohio.
- Intervention: Hospital2Home identifies individuals who have an elevated risk of hospital readmission and provides vouchers for services like personal care and home-delivered meals.
- Results: In each of the seven years the program has been in operation, over 85% of participants have avoided readmission in the first two months after hospital discharge.
Farm Assessment and Rehabilitation Methods (FARM) Program
Updated/reviewed February 2024
- Need: To help farmers with disabilities continue farming while protecting their well-being.
- Intervention: The FARM program helps disabled or ill farmers continue to operate and work their Wisconsin farms.
- Results: Since 2009, the FARM Program has helped over 3,500 farmers continue to farm, resume farming, or find an alternative agricultural occupation.
Last Reviewed: 4/25/2025