Caring for Older Adults

Abstract

Caring for older adults is relational, complex, and multifaceted; it implies both private and public concerns. In Western societies, it is colored by ideals of autonomy and self‐determination. However, it also can be understood through a continuum of interdependence, where an older adult's care needs vary by their cognitive and physical capacities, implying a range of care relationships and contexts of care. Contexts of formal care include clinical settings and long‐term care facilities, where care is paid and formally organized. Paid care workers, especially (im)migrant laborers, provide care to older adults in a variety of living situations, from the adult's home to residential facilities. An important source of unpaid, informal care for older adults in the community is kin caregiving, which entails changes to relationships and identities. While bringing meaning and satisfaction, it can also lead to relational conflict, caregiver burden, and burnout. Future research should explore the structural conditions of paid care work, cultural stereotyping of care workers, and culturally responsive practices of care for older adults from Indigenous or other marginalized communities. Communication scholars can also contribute to innovative art‐based interventions in caring for older adults, as well as planning for inclusive design.