Historical Reflections on Care in the Western World: Caring for the Elderly

This book paints a vivid picture of caregiving for the elderly throughout history, using the innovative concept of a 'carerscape'. Inspired by Appadurai's 'ethnoscape', this framework highlights diverse aspects of caregiving across time and cultures. From kin and household members to spiritual, legal, and community-based systems, the book explores the evolution of care. Chapters delve into prehistoric caregiving practices, drawing on paleontological findings, and examine the roles of spirituality and legality in ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome. The communal spirit of early Christianity and parish care in medieval times are explored, alongside personal narratives from nineteenth-century America. The book also considers representations of ageing and care in folklore, fiction, and media. Concluding with a discussion on modern caregiving, the 'carerscape' is reimagined through the lens of these historical insights, culminating in a reflection on how different countries now recognise the vital role of caregivers. This comprehensive book is essential for scholars of history, anthropology, and social care, as well as practitioners and policy-makers interested in the evolution of caregiving. It offers a rich tapestry of insights for anyone seeking to understand the complex dynamics of care across cultures and eras.

About the Author

Beatrice Hale is an independent researcher based in New Zealand. She has a background in social anthropology and has worked as a medical social worker. During this time, she developed an interest in the role of informal caregivers for the elderly, and created a support group for carers dealing with a wide variety of medical needs. Having completed a PhD at the University of Otago, Beatrice has written numerous articles and co-authored two books, including Family Care and Social Capital: Transitions in Informal Care (2014). Beatrice is a member of the Aotearoa New Zealand Association of Social Workers (ANZASW), the New Zealand Association of Gerontology, and Carers New Zealand.