"The aspect of caregiving becomes incredibly complex": lived experiences of rural cancer caregiving identified through community advisory board engagement.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study is to explore the lived experiences of rural cancer caregiving with particular attention to how geographical context and rural ways of life shape their caregiving roles. METHODS: Five family caregivers and one clinician participated in a Community Advisory Board (CAB). Three CAB meetings and individual interviews were conducted via Zoom, transcribed, and analyzed using a combination of deductive and inductive coding. The Understanding Rural and Remote Health Framework guided the analysis. Through content analysis, codes were organized into categories that reflected critical issues and perspectives raised by CAB members. RESULTS: Two overarching themes emerged: "Theme 1: Difficulties Related to Geographic Isolation" included subthemes of limited access and continuity of care, travel and financial burden, and emotional strain; "Theme 2: Support in Rural Contexts" encompassed subthemes of rural community support systems and the use of technology to reduce access barriers. CONCLUSION: Findings highlight the unique challenges faced by cancer caregivers living in rural areas, including geographic isolation, limited healthcare access, and financial and emotional strain. Also, community-based support and technology emerged as essential resources. These findings underscore the need for multilevel strategies to support rural cancer caregivers that strengthen the rural support network and leverage digital tools to reduce barriers.