With over 20% of older Americans living outside major cities, rural senior living providers face unique challenges and untapped opportunity In small towns across the country, senior citizens face a trio of challenges as they transition into retirement: lower than average incomes, few housing options, and a shortage of services. As aging baby boomers put even greater strain on senior living services, rural communities throughout the United States will have to act quickly to meet demand. Small, Expensive and Rare According to a 2014 survey by the Housing Assistance Council (HAC) entitled Housing and Aging Rural America: Rural Seniors and Their Homes, nearly one-quarter of US seniors live in rural communities. Unfortunately, for older adults residing outside of the nations’ urban centers, senior housing options are slim to nonexistent. Additionally, the standard of care available doesn’t always compare to what’s offered in suburban and urban areas. Even in situations where facilities exist, most are too expensive because incomes are usually much lower outside larger municipalities. “Much of the affordable-housing stock in rural housing areas is old and in need of repair, says Sheila Crowley, president of the National Low-Income Housing Coalition. “Many of the people who live there don’t have the resources that they need in order to keep the houses in good repair,” “A rapidly aging population will significantly impact nearly all aspects of the nation’s social, economic, and housing systems,” note the authors of HAC’s report. “With the scope and magnitude of the looming demographic shift of seniors, rural communities will need to develop a range of housing options available to seniors such as more rental housing, rehabilitation and repair programs, housing with services, and assisted living.” Filling the Void Where HAC highlights the challenges of rural development, Jane Adler sees opportunity....