Caring for Caregivers: Assessing Health and Wellness Needs Among Rural Caregivers
Conference Year
2024
Abstract
Objective: To understand rural caregivers’ health and wellness needs. Methods: Caregivers who reported living in rural areas were recruited from the Vermont Caregiver Registry. Semi‑structured interviews were conducted, transcribed, and analyzed for major themes. Results: Rural caregivers (n=15) noted prioritizing their caregiving role over their physical and psychosocial well‑being, which led to poor diets, lack of physical activity, and less opportunity to seek mental health services or participate in social interactions. Conclusion: There is a need for resources and advocacy to protect rural caregiver health, including integrated in‑home help, access to psychological services, and financial assistance.
Primary Faculty Mentor Name
Maija Reblin
Status
Graduate
Student College
Larner College of Medicine
Program/Major
Public Health
Primary Research Category
Social Science
Caring for Caregivers: Assessing Health and Wellness Needs Among Rural Caregivers
Objective: To understand rural caregivers’ health and wellness needs. Methods: Caregivers who reported living in rural areas were recruited from the Vermont Caregiver Registry. Semi‑structured interviews were conducted, transcribed, and analyzed for major themes. Results: Rural caregivers (n=15) noted prioritizing their caregiving role over their physical and psychosocial well‑being, which led to poor diets, lack of physical activity, and less opportunity to seek mental health services or participate in social interactions. Conclusion: There is a need for resources and advocacy to protect rural caregiver health, including integrated in‑home help, access to psychological services, and financial assistance.