Developing a Village Model for Older Adults In a Rural–Urban Community: A Needs Assessment

Background

Diminished social networks, loneliness, and loss of connection negatively impact older adults’ quality of life and health outcomes. Efforts to improve social and mental engagement are critical for promoting well-being, independence, and aging in place. The Village Model is a member-driven approach connecting older adults to services and social activities, leveraging volunteers and informal networks to build structured support. In partnership with A Caring Place, a nonprofit serving socially isolated older adults and people with disabilities, we conducted a pilot study to assess feasibility of expanding Village services in a rural-urban Southeastern city. This study aims to describe community needs, resources, and gaps identified through a community-needs assessment.

Methods

We employed a community-initiated, community-engaged sequential exploratory mixed-methods study design in collaboration with community partners and key stakeholders including County Council members and an interfaith advocacy organization. These partners were involved throughout the research process, including developing and refining research questions, materials, data collection strategies, interpretation, implications, and recommendations.

Qualitative interviews were first conducted to inform the development of a survey assessing the needs, preferences, and service gaps of older adults. The final survey included 67 questions across the ten domains (e.g. demographics, health and well-being, social connectedness, housing and living environment, access to services, safety and security, technology, income and benefits, and future planning). Residents aged 50 or older and/or living with a disability were eligible to take the survey. Recruitment occurred at in-person community events, through partner networks, and via council member listservs, reaching all 12 council districts.

Results

The sample included 400 participants, of whom 76.5% were aged 65 or older and 35.8% lived alone. At least some help was needed across daily functional needs including meal preparation (11.3%), housework (14.5%) and grocery shopping (12.6%). Among those who wished to remain in their homes as long as possible, the majority anticipated needing support, including assistance with home tasks (93%), caregiving support (92%), home modifications to improve mobility (88%), and financial assistance (74%). Technology access and use was high with 94% with internet access and 85% of the sample felt at least somewhat comfortable using technology. Across domains, gaps emerged in health and well-being (24% reported fair-poor health and over half reported at least 3 chronic illness conditions) and social connectedness (27% reported connectedness below a 5 on a 10-point scale). Respondents indicated interest in transportation services (51%), social engagement activities (49%), and in-home or personal care (45%). Paying more than 30% of monthly costs related to housing was noted by nearly 20% with affordability identified as a key concern for aging in place. The top three anticipated future concerns were health challenges, cost of living, and the ability to live safely at home.

Conclusions

As the number of older adults wishing to age in place grows, communities must identify strategies to support their needs and preferences. Study findings highlight substantial needs and gaps across multiple domains, underscoring the importance of integrated, community-based approaches such as a Village Model to support aging in place.