A Study of a Volunteer Caregiver Program

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine experiences of participation in a Volunteer Caregiver Program in a rural North Dakota county. Data were collected from both the volunteer caregivers and the care receivers. This study examined the participant's demographic characteristics, supports that were needed and services provided, the program's strengths and weaknesses, barriers that were involved for family members in providing elder care for their relative, and the overall experience among participants in the program. Overall, both the volunteers and care receivers had very positive experiences with this program.

Key Words:

• Volunteers
• caregiver
• rural
• informal care