Working Women and Eldercare: A Qualitative Perspective

Abstract

Background This paper aims to explore the elder caregiving process, the challenges faced by working women care providers, and the coping strategies adopted by them. Methods In-depth interviews with 48 participants from 25 multi-generational households were conducted in the slums of Mumbai and analysed using QSR-NVivo-10. Results A majority of the elderly had difficulty in mobility, were financially dependent on children, and had no social security. Working women caregivers supported the needs of the dependent elderly along with performing household chores and doing paid work. Though caregiving overstrained the care providers, strong family ties, acknowledgement of the contributions of the elderly during their young days, and the desire to set a precedent for the young generation did not let them step back from their duties. Sometimes, physically exhausted care providers unknowingly resorted to elderly abuse and neglect. At the same time, a bidirectional flow of support also existed. The expenditure on regular medication put families into financial distress, forcing women care providers to work to meet the needs of the family. Conclusion Conversations among generations helped a lot in enhancing family ties and reducing conflicts.