Care in homes for the elderly

A critical evaluation of basque legislation from a feminist perspectives

Abstract

This study critically examines Basque legislation governing nursing homes, focusing on the challenges posed by their high levels of feminization and precariousness. Adopting an eclectic approach that integrates post-structuralist and structuralist theories and using Bacchi’s WPR method, this research analyzes how the legislation constructs and perpetuates discourses surrounding the feminized and precarious nature of residential care. Building upon previous research on the association between social care and femininity, this study uncovers the assumptions and challenges embedded within the current regulatory framework. The findings reveal that the legislation oversimplifies these issues, attributing their persistence to worker inactivity and a lack of gender education and training. However, this representation overlooks the gendered nature of the problems, the hierarchical structure of care homes, and the influence of cultural traditions. Furthermore, within the broader context of a neoliberal welfare state marked by privatization, declining work standards, and reduced labor rights, the legislation may unintentionally perpetuate patriarchal capitalist systems. By shedding light on these complexities, this study aims to foster a more nuanced understanding of care work, advocating for the recognition of its value and promoting equitable and inclusive care practices that uphold the rights and well-being of women care workers.