Work

Does China Need a Carers’ Policy? A Reflection Based on the Caregiving Experience of Older Carers

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: This study investigated the caregiving capacity of older Chinese carers and discussed whether the Chinese government needs to offer more support to them. In-depth interviews were conducted with forty older respondents aged sixty years or over caring for frail or sick family members. It was found that most respondents demonstrated firm traditional Chinese values by treating relatives bound by blood or marriage as family members and exhibiting a strong obligation towards them. However, the older carers bore a considerable burden and suffered from deteriorating physical and mental health. The Chinese government needs to introduce a nationwide policy for carers, defining its main support and providing clear guidelines for the local government to tackle the caregiving pressures of older carers. Moreover, the concept of ‘common prosperity’ can be adopted as an empowerment strategy by encouraging poor older carers to seek external support without feeling ashamed or dependent on others.

Source: Social Policy and Society

DOI: 10.1017/s1474746424000368

Authors: Chak Kwan Chan, Jianling Liang, Meng Soi Fong, Mun Yu Tang, Sheung Wan Wong, Sonia Kin Lai Chan

Institutions: Lingnan University, Wuyi University, Wuyi University, University of Hong Kong

Language: English

Topic: Intergenerational Family Dynamics and Caregiving

Subfield: Sociology and Political Science

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,450