The U.S. population is aging, with rural areas having a higher proportion of elderly residents compared to urban ones. Data from 2013-2017 showed rural elderly individuals are more likely to have disabilities, experience significant cardiovascular events, and have higher smoking rates, although health care usage and Medicare coverage are similar across groups. The COVID-19 pandemic further impacted older adults, leading to severe illness, higher mortality rates, increased social isolation, reduced physical activity, and migration. Despite these changes, gaps remain in understanding how rural elderly demographics, socioeconomic characteristics, health status, and insurance coverage have evolved.

To address this, the project team will conduct a descriptive study using data from the American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Summary Files and the National Health and Aging Trends Study (NHATS). This research will analyze the rural elderly population's demographics, economic status, health status, and insurance coverage. Understanding these shifts is critical as they influence healthcare needs, access, and cultural attitudes. Socioeconomic changes affect care affordability and access, while evolving health needs require expanded services, including mental health care. The study's findings will inform health care policies and programs, ensuring they align with the needs of an aging and diversifying rural population.