Caregiving in a rural area can be similar to providing care in an urban or suburban area in a number of ways. But it can also be quite different. Some of the reasons people move to and live in rural areas--for example, because they enjoy open spaces and less congestion--are the very things that can cause isolation and other difficulties. Compared to their suburban and urban counterparts, many Americans living in rural areas have access to fewer financial resources, social and health services, public transportation options, business opportunities and young people. In most cases, rural residents must travel further than city dwellers to get the services they need.

In general, rural caregivers are more isolated from:

• Social support
• Resources
• Financial assistance
• Training
• Respite options
• Community programs
• Information on caregiving

How to Manage it All

There are many ways you can improve your situation as a rural caregiver. One of the best things you can do is to take care of yourself. Staying healthy makes you a better caregiver. You can do more when you eat well, exercise and stay rested. You will make more sound decisions, be better able to handle physical demands, and more likely to stay healthy yourself. Review the article Health and Family Caregiving to help you think about ways to take care of yourself.

If you anticipate that you will become a caregiver soon, find out how prepared you actually are to perform this role. Even if you are already a caregiver, it is never too late to make adjustments along the way. Conduct a home safety check. Look for things that might cause problems: tripping/stumbling hazards like throw rugs or extension cords. Cluttered kitchens may be difficult for wheelchair or walker mobility. You should also take an honest look at your own strengths and growth areas. Write down your strengths and look at how they might contribute to being a successful caregiver. Next, make a list of the areas of your personality and physical abilities that may get in the way of being a successful caregiver. What are your fears and concerns about your own ability to care for someone in the best possible manner?

Another very important way to help yourself when you are a caregiver is to learn how to talk with health care and insurance professionals. As a rural caregiver, this is particularly important because you may not have as much actual physical access to doctors, nurses and other medical staff since they may be located in other communities several miles away. During your appointments at clinics and hospitals and at the pharmacy, make the best use of your time. Know what to ask and how to get more information. Take advantage of health care professionals while you have their undivided attention. Do your homework, take advantage of all available resources, and be assertive. Talking With Your Health Care Providers maybe a helpful resource as you prepare for your next visit to a health care provider.

You are Not Alone

Caregiving in suburban and urban settings can be isolating. In rural situations, it can feel very lonely, especially if you have little time for yourself or social activities. Realize that others are caregiving as well--maybe even some of your neighbors “down the road." More than one out of every five adults in the U.S. provides unpaid care for another adult. Just knowing this may help a bit. It is likely that there a several people you know and see regularly who are providing care and you don’t even know about it. There may be potential for social support and respite care from people you haven’t even thought about.

A web resource to consult is the publication Caregiving in Rural America.

For additional information, see the Frequently Asked Questions on Rural Caregiving.

Reference:

• In 2004 the National Alliance for Caregiving in collaboration with AARP and with support from MetLife Foundation produced the report Caregiving in the U.S..