Neurodegeneration and the Intersubjectivities of Care

Med Anthropol. 2020 Jan;39(1):1-15. doi: 10.1080/01459740.2019.1570189. Epub 2019 Feb 1.

Abstract

Caring for a family member or friend with a serious health condition is a common feature of social life. Often, such care is framed as a burden, an unwelcome rupture in the fabric of everyday life. We draw on research conducted in Australia and the UK to examine care in the everyday lives of people living with and caring for neurodegenerative diseases and to trouble care as a burden. Participants in our studies mobilized practices of care to collaboratively produce a "good life". We argue that above all, care is a relational, enacted practice requiring examination in its local context.

Keywords: Australia; Motor Neuron Disease; Parkinson’s disease; United Kingdom; care practices; informal care; intersubjectivity.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Anthropology, Medical
  • Australia / ethnology
  • Caregivers / psychology*
  • Family* / ethnology
  • Family* / psychology
  • Female
  • Home Care Services*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Neurodegenerative Diseases* / ethnology
  • Neurodegenerative Diseases* / therapy
  • United Kingdom / ethnology