Changes in the geographic distribution of Hispanics have created a new focus on Hispanic populations removed from the traditional Hispanic population centers. To focus on the needs of rural elderly Hispanics, interviews with 110 rural elderly Hispanic subjects were conducted that emphasized the reliance of the rural elderly on family members. A high level of social contact was found; 80% of the respondents reported being visited by their families at least once a week. Friends in the community were a secondary source of social contact and help. Participants also reported helping their families and friends at least once a week. Specific coping tactics were revealed in three case studies, particularly the use of natural helping networks as alternative models of service delivery. Particular problems noted in the results were identified as a lack of education and language problems. The findings suggest that the Chicano rural elderly are at the periphery of health and social service systems. (JAC)