Social participation needs of older adults living in a rural regional county municipality: toward reducing situations of isolation and vulnerability

摘要: Social participation is restricted for approximately half the older adult population but critical in fostering community vitality, promoting health, and preventing disabilities. Although targeted through interventions by organizations, healthcare professionals municipalities, little known about needs of adults to participate socially, especially rural areas. This study thus aimed identify prioritize social living a regional county municipality. A participatory action research was conducted municipality (RCM) Quebec, Canada, with convenience sample 139 stakeholders, including adults, caregivers, organization managers, workers, partners key informants. Facilitators barriers are related personal factors (e.g., interests, motivation), environment availability assistance or volunteers) physical distance resources, recreational facilities partners). Nine adults’ emerged were prioritized as follows: 1) having access being informed transportation options, 2) available activities services, 3) activities, volunteering opportunities, suited their schedule, cost, language health condition, 4) accompanied 5) meeting places near home adapted 6–9 (no preferred order) reached when isolated, personally invited welcomed support network, valued recognized. Differences prioritizing disabilities (greater need assistance, accessibility activities) area transportation). To promote active community, women men areas must be addressed, regard transportation, information, accessibility. The first part this will followed selection implementation initiatives designed ultimately foster participation.