FAMILY CAREGIVING IN RURAL NEW MEXICO. (16th November 2018) - Wagner, D
Abstract: Family members provide a significant amount of care and support to their relatives with health problems and activity limitations. Many family caregivers are doing both full-time work outside the home and caregiving. This may lead an individual to make workplace accommodations in order to continue both roles. In New Mexico where family norms are strong and many families are living at or near the poverty level, caregiving can provide a unique challenge to those who work. We have observed a rather unique "balance" between work and family among some NM families. The predominant culture of strong family values supports this strategy based on family-first culture. As family care is needed, some New Mexican family members take care of the balance by making a choice. The illness of a family member is addressed by the near- future caregiver immediately making arrangements to step out of the work role. This has many consequences for the family and, of course family members who might rely on the caregiver for their own financial support. This poster will display the continuum of care and decision-making that leads up to this "anticipatory caregiving response" as well as the effects.