The study’s findings indicate that rural seniors’ health determinants extend significantly
beyond access to physicians and the formal health care system. While having access to health and
medical services was identified by many participants there were aspects of seniors’ support systems
that underscore the influence of other health determinants such as housing, care giving and
transportation. The research sheds light on the need for more information and awareness of existing
services available to rural seniors such as home care and respite care services. In particular, with
limited housing options, no formal transportation services, growing financial concerns and
inadequate caregiver support, many seniors without family often have to move to care facilities
outside of their communities. The results suggest that strategies outside the formal health care
system are necessary for addressing rural seniors’ health service needs.