Behind Closed Doors: Exploring the World of Domestic Caregivers

Abstract

The earliest U.S. efforts to care for the sick, domestically, were motivated by obligation and a tradition of "religious mercy" among the wealthy women of Charleston, South Carolina, who entered the home of the reliant to provide comfort. Today, there are nearly 53 million documented caregivers in the United States and it is estimated that that number is double that when accounting for all of the undocumented caregivers. While the job has its benefits, the strain of caregiving can become overwhelming for many in the field. Society often focuses on the recipient, while overlooking the pressing needs of the caregiver. However, the well-being of the caregiver is just as important to the well-being of the one receiving the care. The caregiver-patient relationship goes both ways. Many of us will end up becoming a caregiver at some point in our lives, most likely taking care of our sick or elderly family members; however, considering an aging population, longer life expectancies, shrinking families, and current crises regarding the security and health of the country and the financial pressures, the supply of caregivers is unlikely to keep up pace with future demand. This project highlights the physical, mental, and psychological effects of the profession on the caregivers themselves, advocating for the protection of our caregivers and helping them find the safe spaces they need. That way they can continue showing up for their patients, and this world, without having to bury their own needs. With the inclusion of a first person point of view, this project is dedicated to my father's work as a primary live-in caregiver of a 36-year old autistic adult. However, my father is only one of those 53 million documented caregivers so as you read further into the piece, you will hear of not just my family's story, but the stories of two other families and how they and the ones around them have lived with their caregiving responsibilities.