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  5. Comparative Analysis of Gender and Age Patterns in Informal Care Received among Disabled Older Adults: A Cross-National Study across the United States, Mexico, China, and Indonesia

Comparative Analysis of Gender and Age Patterns in Informal Care Received among Disabled Older Adults: A Cross-National Study across the United States, Mexico, China, and Indonesia

Posted on November 10, 2023 by MCOB Outreach
MCOB Outreach

Author of the paper, Urvashi Jain, MCOB Assistant Professor of Economics, Finance & Real Estate. data-lightbox='featured'
Author of the paper, Urvashi Jain, MCOB Assistant Professor of Economics, Finance & Real Estate.

Urvashi Jain, MCOB Assistant Professor, has recently published her paper on a 'Comparative Analysis of Gender and Age Patterns in Informal Care Received among Disabled Older Adults: A Cross-National Study across the United States, Mexico, China, and Indonesia.'

 

This study compares caregiving for older disabled adults in the United States, Mexico, China, and Indonesia. It reveals that caregiving is largely patriarchal, with husbands often cared for by wives in all four countries. As people age, their children become primary caregivers, regardless of gender. Women in China, Indonesia, and Mexico rely heavily on their children for care, likely due to social norms and limited social safety nets. In contrast, the U.S. has diverse caregiving sources, including spouses, children, and paid caregivers. Understanding these caregiving patterns is crucial for creating equitable caregiving policies in an aging world.

 

You can read the full paper here.

 

As age advances, and abilities fade, A dance of care takes center stage.

In patriarchal realms, it's often spouses who aid, Men supported by wives, as years engage.

Yet, as time weaves on, a shift takes place, Children step up, their roles embrace.

Especially in lands where norms hold strong, In Indonesia and Mexico, children's love is strong.

In the U.S., a varied scene unfolds, Spouses, children, and paid help in holds.

An industry thrives, as needs are met, Institutions rise, a safety net.

In this global tapestry of giving and receiving, Gendered patterns, our eyes are perceiving.

Women often shoulder the caregiving weight, A tale repeated, in every state.

Let's ponder the lessons, these findings reveal, in crafting support for those in need.

For as our world ages, we must heed, The nuances of care, and new paths to lead.

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