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Aug. 5 — Researcher publishes study on improving rural aging supports
Pauline Martinez, a researcher with the Family Caregiving Institute at the Betty Irene Moore School of Nursing at UC Davis, published “Advancing rural aging policy in California: recommendations for state policy on housing, long-term services and supports, and health care access” in Public Policy & Aging Report. The study examined how California can better support older adults aging in rural communities by addressing gaps in housing, health care, and long-term services and supports. Drawing on input from 227 residents and professionals across seven counties, plus consultation with 82 policy experts, researchers identified persistent barriers including workforce shortages, transportation challenges, fragmented services, unaffordable or inaccessible housing and limited caregiver support. The authors, including Heather M. Young, recommend adapting statewide aging policies to rural realities through stronger workforce investments, simplified service navigation, expanded transportation and broadband access, caregiver resources, and coordinated housing and health systems. The approach offers a model for other states.
