Service Utilization and Activity Participation among Psychologically Vulnerable and Well Elderly in Rural Small Towns

Abstract

Utilization profiles for 15 community services and 16 selected activities are presented for psychologically vulnerable (N = 59) and well (N = 643) residents of 18 small Kansas towns. The vulnerable group walked and rode with others more often to services but drove themselves less than did the well group. Few significant differences were found between the two groups on frequency of service use, but the well group participated in several activities more often than the vulnerable group. Implications for mental health professionals and transportation planners working in rural areas are discussed.