“…This included those who were living alone [ 55 ], older adults with chronic health or substance abuse problems [ 44 , 55 ], informal caregivers (i.e., often older adults providing spousal care) [ 43 ], and those who had recently moved to rural environments [ 56 ]. The lack of ability to connect with family, friends and routine social engagements caused significant mental health harm, often from a lack of rural-specific information and the fear surrounding COVID-19 infection and sickness [ 53 , 57 ]. However, these challenges were identified in studies focused on populations in the Global North (i.e., more affluent, developed and powerful countries).…”