Between duty and want: The process and motivations of feminine care in old age

Abstract

Demographic ageing in Mexico is an increasing phenomenon. With this, the demands of care for this kind of population become a matter of fact. Historically, the care has been assigned to women, which emphasizes prevailing gender inequalities. Women who care for elder are motivated by the recognition of a need, responsibility, provision of care work, and the reception of care work. These motivations arise in different forms and contexts where family and emotional ties are present. This article shows some stories of female caregivers to examine the process that implies providing care and their motivations to assume this role. The issue of the rights of the elderly is also incorporated from the legal field to reflect on the need to include this issue in our country’s public policies.