Introduction. Poland is experiencing an ageing population, which also affects rural areas and poses challenges due to limited public services and the generally lower living standards for older adults compared with those in cities. This study, however, highlights the factors that enable ageing in place in rural contexts despite these deficiencies. The ability to remain in one’s home and community for as long as possible is a preference shared by older adults worldwide. Aim. The aim is to explore practices of informal unpaid support for rural older adults provided by family, neighbours, friends, and acquaintances, in contrast to paid, formalised, institutional or professional assistance. Three main types of such support are distinguished: instrumental (transport, shopping, other daily living tasks), emotional, and material/financial. Methods and materials. The analysis draws on 40 in-depth interviews conducted in 2024 with rural residents aged 65 and over, living in 33 villages across Poland. The interviewees vary in gender, age, education, household structure (living alone or with others). Results. The study confirms the central role of family in providing practical, emotional, and financial support, while also underscoring the importance of non-family support that compliments or substitutes for it. Neighbours are particularly important in offering practical assistance, whereas friends often play crucial roles as sources of emotional support. The analysis further highlights that gender, age, and household structure shape both the scope of informal support received by older adults in rural areas and its sources.