Challenges Experienced by Rural Informal Caregivers of Older Adults in the United States: A Scoping Review

ABSTRACT

Purpose

The purpose of this scoping review was to document the state of the literature regarding the challenges experienced by rural informal caregivers of older adults in the United States.

Method

We reviewed peer-reviewed academic articles published through December 1, 2021, based on Arksey and O’Malley’s framework.

Results

The initial search resulted in 1,255 articles, of which 12 studies were included for the final review. Thematic content analysis was utilized to identify emerging themes of challenges experienced by rural informal caregivers of older adults. The identified challenges include a lack of knowledge regarding resources, financial difficulties, health-related challenges, and barriers related to geographic distance.

Discussion and Conclusion

The implications of these challenges are used to shape recommendations for social work, service planning, and policy changes that can improve caregiving experiences for rural families.

KEYWORDS:

• Rural caregiving
• challenges
• financial challenges
• geographic distance
• resources

Acknowledgments

This work was published in Jon Shuffler’s master thesis. Mr. Shuffler received a fellowship from the National Institute for Transportation and Communities for this research.

Disclosure statement

There is no financial or non-financial interest that has arisen from the direct applications of this research. There are no relevant competing interests to declare.

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported by the University of Texas at Arlington-based fellowship (Shuffler) offered by the National Institute for Transportation and Communities.