Death, Sex & Money Paid to Care: The Magic, and Mess, of Care Work
Jan 7, 2025
Tita Rose, a dedicated Filipina immigrant eldercare worker, sheds light on the often-overlooked world of paid caregivers. She reveals her journey through the complexities of elder care and the exploitation she uncovered in a nursing home. Exploring the emotional bonds between caregivers and clients, the discussion also tackles cultural misunderstandings and advocates for workers' rights. Tita highlights the challenges of low pay and harsh working conditions, emphasizing the power of community and solidarity in the caregiving profession.
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Ron's Intimate Patient Care
- Ron, a home health aide, formed a close bond with an ALS patient, a former physician.
- Their intimate conversations covered life, death, and accepting help, leaving a lasting impact on Ron.
Natural Caregiver
- Ron found caregiving natural, unlike school, suggesting a fit between his skills and the work's demands.
- His ease with older adults stemmed from their directness and vulnerability, contrasting with his peers.
Childhood Trauma and Empathy
- Ron's childhood trauma of witnessing his father's violence shaped his empathy for vulnerable patients.
- This personal experience fostered a deep understanding of fear and helplessness, informing his caregiving.