Multi-dimensional Accessibility Barriers in Care Services for the Rural Elderly with Disabilities: A Qualitative Study in China

Abstract Background As the aging of the population increases, the number and growth rate of disabled elderly people in rural China are significant. However, their special care needs and barriers to accessibility have been neglected in existing research. This paper covers a multi-dimensional investigation into accessibility barriers in care services for elderly people with disabilities in rural China. Methods In-depth interviews with 13 rural disabled elderly people in China took place using qualitative methods. Results Based on a welfare pluralism approach, the results showed that in comparison with urban areas, care services for disabled elderly people in rural areas are more subject to social barriers. This can be seen in the limited state (lack of resources, rigorous qualification of eligibility, uneven distribution, and irregular implementation); the absent market (low levels of consumption, high cost pressures, self-exclusion, and traditional cultural constraints); absent NGOs and volunteers (difficulties in access for NGOs and volunteers outside the area and formation difficulties of local NGOs and volunteers); as well as low-quality care in households and communities (unprofessional care from the spouse, unsustainable care from offspring, and unavailable community-based care). Conclusion A multi-subject support network should be established to remove accessibility barriers to care service provision for elderly people with disabilities in rural areas through active intervention and interaction.