Rural-urban differences in unpaid caregivers of adults

Abstract

Introduction: Rural-urban differences in the characteristics of unpaid caregivers of adults in the USA were explored. Methods: Using 'Caregiving in the U.S. 2015', a survey fielded by the National Alliance for Caregiving and AARP, a national examination of rural caregivers (n=1352) is presented. Results: Rural caregivers reported lower socioeconomic status than urban caregivers (measured by income, education, and employment), suggesting greater likelihood of caregiver strain. In multivariable analysis adjusting for age, race, educational attainment, and reported caregiver burden, residence was associated with self-reported health status of the caregiver but not with physical, financial or emotional distress. The odds of rural caregivers reporting poor to fair health were significantly lower than their urban counterparts (adjusted odds ratio 0.57; 95% confidence interval, 0.360.91). Conclusions: These findings may indicate differing cultural values in rural and urban respondents, rather than better health among rural caregivers. Understanding the characteristics of rural caregivers may help policymakers target interventions.