Exploring Information and Referral Needs of Individuals with Dementias and Informal Caregivers in Rural and Remote Areas

Objectives: The provision of information and referral (I&R) and connection to support services is crucial for individuals with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRD) and their informal caregivers, especially in rural and remote regions where care and support resources may be limited. The purpose of this study was to develop a deeper understanding of needs for I&R from community stakeholders across a rural and remote state. Methods: A series of town hall meetings were conducted across ten communities in a frontier state. Results: Participants were 175 adults with a mean age of approximately 60 years (SD = 15 years); a majority were non-Hispanic white, female, and self-identified as informal caregivers. Three themes emerged as primary areas of need: (1) to address stigma related to ADRD; (2) to improve the availability of dementia-related I&R; and (3) to efficiently disseminate dementia-related I&R. Conclusions: Findings suggest the importance of a single point of access for I&R with presence in local communities as well as initial and ongoing assessment and provision of appropriate I&R throughout the course of ADRDs. Clinical Implications: Existing community resources and funding support should be leveraged for multiple points and means of access to reliable I&R.