Growing Old on the Land: The Unique Challenges Facing Rural Australians
- Written by: The Times
Australia's farming families spend decades building properties, businesses and communities.
Many hope to remain on the land for as long as possible.
Yet ageing in rural Australia presents challenges very different from those faced in major cities.
Distance, workforce shortages and access to healthcare all influence how older Australians experience later life.
The family farm
For many farming families, retirement is not simply a financial decision.
Leaving the property often means leaving a lifetime of work, identity and community.
Many continue contributing well into their seventies and beyond.
Healthcare across large distances
Routine medical appointments may require hours of travel.
Emergency services are often further away.
Specialist care may only be available in regional centres.
These realities influence when older Australians seek residential care.
Home care is transforming rural ageing
Technology has made independent living more achievable.
Telehealth, visiting nurses, home support workers and community transport enable many people to remain on their properties longer than previous generations.
Reliable telecommunications have become almost as important as reliable roads.
Succession planning
Ageing also raises questions about farm succession.
Families increasingly balance:
- caring for ageing parents;
- transferring ownership;
- maintaining viable businesses; and
- supporting younger generations.
These decisions can shape rural enterprises for decades.
The Rural Times View
Country Australians have spent lifetimes producing food and fibre for the nation. They deserve access to quality healthcare and aged care regardless of where they live. Meeting that expectation will require continued investment in regional healthcare, communications, transport and community support, ensuring rural Australians can remain connected to the places they have spent their lives building.
