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Abstract
Healthcare is closely linked to well-being in later life. Considering the context of population aging in China, and the disadvantaged position of rural older adults in accessing healthcare, it is important to examine the factors influencing their healthcare-seeking behavior. However, existing research pays insufficient attention to cultural factors, particularly the role of ageism. The study aims to explore in what ways do social constraints and cultural factors affect the healthcare-seeking of Chinese older adults living in rural areas from the perspective of ageism. The study draws on semi-structured interviews with 11 older adults living in rural China. The study shows that older adults exhibit both positive and negative attitudes towards seeking healthcare. These attitudes are shaped by the association of aging with physical decline and concerns about becoming a burden on their families. Very few participants reported experiencing external age discrimination, nor did they express unmet needs for healthcare services. In addition, the study reveals that rural older adults heavily rely on their children when making healthcare-related decisions. This marginalization in healthcare decision-making may be related to their limited social network and restricted access to informational resources.