Investigating the Experiences of Ontario's Rural Residents during the COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

Rural residents are often more disadvantaged in responding to challenges compared to urban dwellers. Using a case study, our study aims to enhance the understanding of the COVID-19 pandemic’s effects on rural residents. The objectives of our study are to 1) explore rural residents' experiences as it relates to communication, access to government services, food security, and transportation; 2) examine the economic effects on rural populations on their income and employment. An online survey was completed anonymously through a google forms link by Middlesex County residents sample size N= (436). The survey questionnaire contained socio-demographics-related questions and closed-ended and open-ended questions. The quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS, while qualitative data were analyzed using thematic analysis. The pandemic has affected participants’ economic and social lives in significant ways. The primary reported issues were physical and mental health, employment and less income, transportation/travel inconvenience, access to food and essential needs, and social isolation.