Family Caregivers for Seniors in Rural Areas

Abstract

In this article, the demographic characteristics of family caregivers for seniors in rural communities are assessed to examine whether their circumstances could facilitate or impede their well-being. Services available in rural communities for family members providing ongoing care to frail seniors is examined, particularly those that provide health and social services. How families access these services and whether there are specific barriers in service provision are analyzed based on current social work practice and the research literature. Trends for future services are identified as well as whether these trends support new roles for social workers in rural settings.

KEYWORDS:

• family
• caregivers
• rural
• elderly

Notes

Note. Adapted from Easter Seals Disability Services and National Alliance for Caregiving (2006).

Note. Adapted from Lohmann and Lohmann (2005) and Talley, Chwalisz, and Buckwalter (2011).