Caring of the Elderly in Paraguay: Community Strategies and the Circulation of Care in Transnational Families

Abstract

This article analyses the ways in which the care of the Paraguayan elderly is organized, in rural areas and in contexts in which their children have migrated to Argentina. Main findings stem from an analysis of interviews and observations carried out both in Paraguay and Argentina. Practices of care in collective spaces as well as differentiated resources available to transnational families are examined. The research concludes that in contexts of severe deprivations and scarce public intervention, being part of transnational families improves life conditions of the elderly in Paraguay. Furthermore, it reflects upon the need of developing adequate analytical frameworks aimed at advancing towards the design of national and transnational policies guaranteeing public responsibilities in the care of the elderly.