ObjectivesWith an aging population and rural workforce shortages, family caregivers face growing demands. Caregivers' ability to continue providing care depends on their own underlying health and access to home- and community-based services (HCBS). This study examines rural caregiver needs within the Veterans Health Administration.MethodsWe conducted a qualitative study using data from family caregivers (N = 19). Content analysis was used to identify key themes.ResultsKey emergent themes included (1) Dyadic health: significant health concerns for both caregiver and Veteran; (2) Tension of pride vs. support needs as a caregiver; and (3) Patchwork of community supports: limited access to healthcare, respite, and transportation.DiscussionThis study highlights challenges in supporting rural family caregivers of older Veterans with complex health needs. Addressing transportation burdens, dual caregiver-care recipient needs require innovative, dyad-focused approaches. Future research using dyadic data can deepen understanding and guide community-based, caregiver-informed solutions.
Marfeo et al. (Wed,) studied this question.