RRH: Rural and Remote Health. Published article number: 4155 - A comparison of barriers to accessing services for mental and physical health conditions in a sample of rural Australian adults

People with dementia often experience social isolation and stigmatization. Research shows that bringing generations together can be mutually beneficial. Although intergenerational dementia programs show promising results, specific successful elements remain unclear. A scoping literature review was performed to compare intergenerational dementia programs and identify successful elements and outcomes. Successful elements included (1) including buddy systems to foster relationship building, (2) dementia education to increase knowledge, positive attitudes and empathy among younger participants, (3) Montessori-based activities, (4) being considerate about activity set-up, (5) analyzing student-reflective journals, and (6) reminiscence programs. These findings can be used to develop successful intergenerational dementia programs.

This study aimed to explore barriers and facilitators that impact on farmers’ help-seeking behaviours for health and mental health concerns. Fifteen semi-structured interviews were conducted with farmers (12 male; age 51.7 ± 12.6 years) from three rural regions in South Australia. Interviews explored demographic and farm-related characteristics, perceptions of individual (and where relevant family) health and mental health concerns and experiences, and perceived barriers of health support-seeking. Thematic analysis was used to identify key themes. Four key themes were identified relating to help-seeking; personal attitudes and beliefs, farm-related barriers, health system barriers and the provision of support from family and friends. Dominant personal attitudes included valuing independence, strength and privacy. Farm related barriers included the ‘farm comes first’ and the fact that ‘farm work is never done’. Health system barriers included issues relating to availability of choice and access, professionals (lack of) understanding of farm life, and time and financial costs of accessing care. Provision of support from family and friends involved informal help and advice, including facilitating access to professional support. Multiple attitudinal, structural, and farm-related issues affect farmers’ help-seeking. Professionals who understand farm work practices and routines are valued by farmers and this is likely to facilitate access to care. Workforce development programs and community programs that involve farmers’ perspectives as consumers and co-designers, using evidence-based strategies, may assist in strengthening these relationships.