Social support and barriers to healthcare among older Latinos in a rural community

Rural older Latinos, a highly economically disadvantaged ethnic subpopulation, face profound healthcare disparities. A bleak picture depicts poor health status and high rates of chronic illnesses and disability needing significant medical services and social support. This study sought to identify sources of social support and barriers to healthcare in a convenience sample of community dwelling older Latinos. A survey administered in English or Spanish includes questions on language preference, health conditions, and healthcare and support. Participants (N = 68) were primarily women, late sixties, low SES, and various religions. Most completed it in Spanish. Preference for Spanish (82%) and birth place (89.7% foreign born) suggest low acculturation. Respondents reported several health conditions. They receive care primarily from family, particularly daughters, and friends. Clergy and fellow church members provide emotional and instrumental supports to help manage health related conditions. Using traditional medicines when sick or worried is common. Most rely on Medicare or Medicaid (75%); 16% have no insurance. Some had felt disrespected (21.8%) and/or misunderstood (21.8%) by health providers. The majority (92.7%) desire to seek formal healthcare; 48% report difficulties getting this help including cost (73.6%), transportation (51.5%), unfamiliarity with providers (41.3%), and language barriers (64.7%).

Given the reliance on informal supports, policies could help strengthen the quality, appropriateness, and availability of the care and support informal networks provide. Respondents overwhelmingly desire formal health services; the significant barriers to access must be considered in program development. These measures could help address healthcare disparities for older Latinos, a historically underserved subpopulation.