Formal home care services: examining the long-term care needs of rural older women.

Little data or current research exists regarding the specific long-term care needs of rural older women. This article examines the variables that appear to influence the availability of formal home care services. Utilization is discussed within the context of the specific social, cultural, and demographic factors that are applicable to this group of individuals. A description of the unique health care considerations of older women is also presented, along with recommendations for future research efforts and programming initiatives.