The Role of Local Knowledge in Multigenerational Caregiving for Older People

Abstract

ABSTRACT Little is known about how local knowledge informs the way that families provide care for older people beyond the role played by the cultural values of obligation and reciprocity. Better understanding of the role of local knowledge in caregiving practices can contribute to the improvement of support for family caregiving in particular contexts. Addressing this knowledge gap, this study identifies forms of local knowledge that play a role in the way care is provided for older family members in multigenerational Balinese households. Narrative interviews were conducted with 49 members of 11 multigenerational households in Bali. Using thematic analysis, four important forms of local knowledge were identified: (i) caring as intergenerational obligation; (ii) caring to meet needs; (iii) caring in harmony; and (iv) caring through social connections. These local findings contribute to the global discussion on family relationships, the role of social networks, and medical practices on aging and policy.