Abstract:

This paper considers the implications of population aging in rural communities for housing, services and transportation, and emphasizes Ontario conditions. Following a discussion of the distinctive characteristics of the aging process in rural regions, the adequacy of knowledge of the various links between rural population aging and housing, services and transportation issues is assessed. In response to the finding that the appreciation of issues and the generation of policy alternatives has been hampered by a sector-specific approach, a two-tier integrative modelling framework is presented and discussed. Policy alternatives are debated in the context of this framework. The paper concludes with the caution that research on rural aging needs to constantly bear in mind the diversity of local communities, the dynamics of rural life, and the integrated nature of aging issues.