title: Faith, Work, and Reciprocity: Listening to Mexican Men Caregivers of Elderly Family Members.
abstract: The purpose of this qualitative study was to examine the role of Mexican men caregivers of older adults. Studies investigating male caregiving practice in Mexico are lacking. Listening events for older adults and family caregivers were held in six cities, obtaining an ethnically and socioeconomically diverse sample of 121 participants-81 older adults and 57 primary caregivers (including 17 older adults). Focus groups discussed end-of-life issues and challenges of care. Discussions were audio recorded and field notes were made. Framework Analysis was used to analyze data. Nationally, 37% of the caregivers were men. In the metropolitan area of Mexico City, 57% of caregivers were men. The men caregivers discussed their roles and experiences. The results were categorized into three themes: (a) reciprocity in family caregiving, (b) a practical work-oriented attitude toward caregiving, and (c) strong religious faith. Caregiving formed an important part of their masculine role. Stereotypes related to gender and care should be reexamined. Further research is needed to explore gender variations in caregiving, evolving gender roles, and needs for support and services.
authors.affiliation: 1 Universidad de la Sierra Sur, Miahuatlán de Porfirio Díaz, Oaxaca, Mexico.
authors.forename: Douglas C
authors.initials: DC
authors.lastname: Nance
authors.affiliation: 2 Universidad Autonoma de la Yucatan and Instituto Mexicano de Seguro Social School of Nursing, Merida, Yucatan, Mexico.
authors.forename: Maria Isabel
authors.initials: MI
authors.lastname: Rivero May
authors.affiliation: 3 Instituto Mexicano de Seguro Social, Ciudad Juarez, Chihuahua, Mexico.
authors.forename: Luis
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Flores Padilla
authors.affiliation: 4 Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, Mexico City, Mexico.
authors.forename: Mario
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Moreno Nava
authors.affiliation: 5 Instituto Nacional de Geriatria, Mexico City, Mexico.
authors.forename: Alma Laura
authors.initials: AL
authors.lastname: Deyta Pantoja
mesh_terms: D000368:Aged; D017028:Caregivers / Q000523:psychology*; D005190:Family; D017144:Focus Groups; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008571:Men / Q000523:psychology*; D008800:Mexico; D029181:Spirituality; D013240:Stereotyping; D014937:Work
keywords: gerontology; male caregivers; masculinity; qualitative research; spirituality