Imperfect Solutions to the Neoliberal Problem of Public Aging: A Critical Discourse Analysis of Public Narratives of Long-Term Residential Care. Issue 1 (6th March 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: El-Bialy, Rowan; Funk, Laura; Thompson, Genevieve; Smith, Malcolm; St John, Philip; Roger, Kerstin; Penner, Jamie; Luo, Hai
• Is Part Of: Canadian journal on aging. Volume 41:Issue 1(2022)
• Page Start: 121
• Page End: 134
• Publication Date: 2022-03-06
• Subjects: aging -- long-term residential care -- critical discourse analysis -- public perceptions -- policy narratives -- nursing homes; vieillissement -- soins de longue durée -- analyse critique du discours -- perceptions du public -- récits politiques -- centres de soins; Gerontology -- Periodicals; Gerontology -- Canada -- Periodicals; 612.6705
• DOI: 10.1017/S0714980821000325
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0714-9808

Abstract

Abstract: Public representations of long-term residential care (LTRC) facilities have received limited focus in Canada, although literature from other countries indicates that public perceptions of LTRC tend to be negative, particularly in contexts that prioritize aging and dying in place. Using Manitoba as the study context, we investigate a question of broad relevance to the Canadian perspective; specifically, what are current public perceptions of the role and function of long-term care in the context of a changing health care system? Through critical discourse analysis, we identify four overarching discourses dominating public perceptions of LTRC: the problem of public aging, LTRC as an imperfect solution to the problem, LTRC as ambiguous social spaces, and LTRC as a last resort option. Building on prior theoretical work, we suggest that public perceptions of LTRC are informed by neoliberal discourses that privilege individual responsibility and problematize public care.