Long-Distance Caregiving: A Systematic Review of the Literature

Abstract

There are an estimated 5–7 million long-distance caregivers (LDCs) in the United States, but little is known about this growing population. This study reviewed the literature on LDCs and examined 16 identified studies. Although studies defined LDCs differently, a composite description of who LDCs are and what they do is presented. LDCs make substantial contributions in terms of physical, financial, and social support. Distance complicates communication about care recipients' health and care needs, as well as the types of care that can be provided. Related to this, geographic separation can exacerbate care-related stressors. Implications for future research were also identified.

Keywords:

• caregivers
• proximity
• informal care
• care networks
• geography
• literature review

Acknowledgments

This research was supported by a doctoral fellowship through the John. A. Hartford Foundation. Dr. Cagle's efforts were also supported, in part, by T-32 training grants from the National Institute on Aging (NIA), 2T32AG000272-06A2 and 5T32AG000212-19, and a McGrath-Morris fellowship and residency. The authors would like to thank Pam Kovacs, PhD, Maggie Clifford, MSW, and the reviewers for their help with preparing this manuscript.