Who Cares for Older People? A Case Study on Paid Care Work in Jujuy (2015)

Abstract

In this paper, a study of home carers is conducted from a broad perspective, framed in the care economy. Existing roles, functions and problems are analyzed from the pillars of the diamond welfare: State, Market, Family and Community. An approach is made to the local characteristics of the persons offering the service, through semi-structured interviews and the description of a related public policy, the Home Care Program. This programme promotes the integration into the labour market mainly of women in situations of socio-economic vulnerability. According to the study carried out and the background examined, the employment situation in the sector presents problems which have been replicated since ancient times and should therefore be dealt with within the framework of a wider care system, as well as reviewing and monitoring compliance with existing labour rights. It is necessary to place on the agenda alternatives that ensure the provision of service in decent conditions, promote the hierarchy of activity and make care visible as a public problem.
There is a significant reproduction of gender and class inequalities, so that access to free care services is essential for home carers to have time for other activities, mainly study and stay in the labour market.