SUPPORTING PROVIDERS OF IN-HOME CARE - THE NEEDS OF FAMILIES WITH RELATIVES WHO ARE DISABLED

The purpose of this study was to explore in detail the financial resources and needs, and perceived coping abilities of families providing in-home care for relatives with disabilities. The group of families participating in the study represents all such families within an eight-county rural area of the Southern United States. All disability groups are represented in the sample. Results indicate that large numbers of impoverished families were providing in-home care. These families report their most urgent needs to be financial assistance, medical care, and job placement services. Respondents report varying levels of difficulty in coping with the presence of a relative experiencing disability. Implications for rehabilitation professionals are presented.