Community Leader Perceptions of the Health Needs of Older Adults. (May 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Goris, Emilie Dykstra; Schutte, Debra L.; Rivard, Jamie L.; Schutte, Brian C.
• Is Part Of: Western journal of nursing research. Volume 37:Number 5(2015)
• Page Start: 599
• Page End: 618
• Publication Date: 2015-05
• Subjects: community-based participatory research -- community needs assessment -- geriatric; Nursing -- Research -- Periodicals; Nursing -- Periodicals; Nursing -- Research -- West (U.S.) -- Periodicals; Nursing -- West (U.S.) -- Periodicals; Nursing -- Periodicals; Nursing Research -- Periodicals; Soins infirmiers -- Recherche -- Périodiques; Soins infirmiers -- Périodiques; Soins infirmiers -- Recherche -- États-Unis (Ouest) -- Périodiques; Soins infirmiers -- États-Unis (Ouest) -- Périodiques; Soins infirmiers; Recherche; États-Unis (Ouest); Périodique électronique (Descripteur de forme); Ressource Internet (Descripteur de forme); 610.730702
• DOI: 10.1177/0193945914530046
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0193-9459

Abstract

The purpose of this needs assessment was to determine community leader perceptions of health-related needs and resources available to rural-dwelling older adults as part of a community–academic partnership in the rural Midwest. A community advisory board, in accordance with community-based participatory research principles, was influential in study design and implementation. Key informant interviews ( N = 30) were conducted with community leaders including professionals from schools, businesses, churches, and health care as well as government officials. Thematic analysis revealed "Family Is Central, " "Heritage, " "Strength, " and "Longevity" as important themes related to older adults and their health care needs within the community. "Close-knit" and "Church Is Central" were also identified as important aspects of elder care. Community leaders perceived the "Rural Economy, " "Distance to Resources, " and "Seasonal Resources" as significant barriers for older adults. This work contributes important insights into community leaders' perceptions of health needs and challenges faced by older adults in rural settings.