Rural Health Matters: Caring for Aging Parents in Rural Communities

Dr. Jeffrey Gold discusses ways families can approach changes in aging loved ones over the holiday season and manage care with compassion and empathy.

LINCOLN, NEBRASKA (RFD-TV) — As families prepare to gather for the holidays, conversations around aging parents and grandparents are becoming increasingly common — especially in rural communities where access to healthcare and support services can be limited.

On this week’s Rural Health Matters, University of Nebraska-Lincoln President Dr. Jeffrey Gold joined the program to discuss how families can navigate these changes with care and compassion.

Dr. Gold emphasized the importance of recognizing early signs that parents or grandparents may need more support and encouraged families to approach the topic with empathy and open communication. He also noted that caring for aging loved ones can create emotional and logistical stress, making it essential for families to plan together and seek community resources where possible.

Viewers with questions for Dr. Gold can reach him by email at [email protected]

Related Stories
RFD-TV Farm Legal and Tax Expert Roger McEowen explains the basics of Low-Risk Credit in Farming, and how an understanding of the farm credit landscape lets producers tactfully approach debt.
Wed, 12/17/25 – 7:30 PM ET | 6:30 PM CT | 5:30 PM MT | 4:30 PM PT
Laramie Sandquist discusses Nationwide Agribusiness’s commitment to grain bin safety initiatives, including providing life-saving equipment and training to fire departments across the country.

More Shows
Since some of the world’s most wondrous places lie just outside the back door, Exmark created its Backyard Life website, developed to inspire homeowners to realize the full potential of their own backyards.
The latest news and lifestyle stories from RFD-TV News about all the sports and outdoor activities important to Rural America!
RFD-TV’s comprehensive Weather coverage provides daily updates and insights tailored to help farmers and rural Americans stay weather-ready.
Explore scenic routes, hidden gems, and travel tips for an unforgettable rural adventure. Start your exploration now with RFD-TV Travel!
The latest country, bluegrass, polka and Americana music and entertainment news important to Rural America, including exclusive artist interviews and in-studio performances as seen on RFD-TV.
Stay ahead of the forecast with RFD-TV Weather News for the latest info tailored to help farmers and ranchers navigate changing weather conditions.
Explore the future of agriculture with RFD-TV’s FFA coverage. Celebrate youth leadership, innovation, and the next generation shaping the agribusiness landscape.
You’ll love what we’re cooking up with RFD-TV’s Food & Drink section. Discover classic country recipes, where your food comes from and how to grow it, too!
“Keep It Rural” each time you join us on RFD-TV with these inspiring stories that celebrate the essence of the Rural and Western lifestyles!
RFD-TV’s Agriculture Shows provide viewers with the latest trends in the world of agribusiness, in-depth commodity market coverage, expert insights, and captivating stories of farmers and ranchers across Rural America.