By
Hilary Gibson, Staff Writer
In general, when it comes to
rural healthcare and remembering the caregiver, it has been just
“assumed” since there is a strong feeling of “family” among the
rural people, there will always be someone to take care of a
person in need, as well as provide respite care for the
caregiver. Today, most families have one or two relatives,
at-the-most, who live close enough to help with the caregiving,
proving that what is really known about the rural caregiver is
nothing more than something between myth and wishful thinking.
Most policy-makers think that the cost of living in a rural area
is low, but they forget about hidden costs such as
transportation. While rural areas are thought of as beautiful
and idyllic places to reside, the fact of isolation and the lack
of public transportation, plus limited resources make this a
less-than-perfect place if you are in need of respite or medical
attention.
Providing free training sessions at the nearest church or school,
along with free respite care and transportation would be a great
first-step to improving the life of a rural caregiver. Make no
mistake about it, though… rural caregivers don’t spend their time
feeling sorry for themselves. They are of hardy stalk, and have a
true independent spirit, which makes it difficult for them to feel
comfortable asking for the help and assistance they need and
deserve. All the more reason why we should be taking care of what
has always been thought to be the
“backbone” of this country. Shame on us all if they are to remain
invisible and forgotten in a “shadowland.”
Rural Assistance Strategies
-
rural caregivers need social and emotional support
-
needs assessments for caregivers must be done and
encouraged
-
providing financial assistance for health care expenses
-
encourage and promote supportive work
environments (flex time)
-
understand that family support and help is not always
available for caregivers
-
create rural caregiver support groups
-
improve access to community services
-
improve visibility of community service providers
-
make funding available for support services and
institutional care
-
tend to the health needs of the caregiver
-
recognize caregiving as work and provide financial
compensation
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