Qualitative study identifies healthcare access and respite challenges for family caregivers of older veterans, highlighting innovative support approaches.
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.
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Marfeo et al. (2026) studied this question.
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