Older Caregivers of Children with Physical Disabilities: A Dual Challenge for Social Participation?

Mercedes Molina-Montoya and Yolanda Domenech-López ()
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Mercedes Molina-Montoya: Department of Social Work and Social Services, University of Alicante, 03690 Alicante, Spain
Yolanda Domenech-López: Department of Social Work and Social Services, University of Alicante, 03690 Alicante, Spain

Societies, 2025, vol. 15, issue 8, 1-20

Abstract: Older people’s social participation is being shaped by the current context of “liquid modernity,” characterized by the erosion of traditional roles and identity, fragile social ties, individualism, economic precariousness, and uncertainty. The challenges entailed by these trends can be exacerbated when a circumstance, such as being the parent of an adult with a physical disability, is combined with old age. This study aimed to explore how this dual condition influences processes of aging and community participation. This work presents the findings of a phenomenological study conducted in 2025 through semi-structured interviews with a sample of 24 elderly people with children diagnosed with spina bifida. The results show that the children’s support needs, especially when they live with their parents, but also if they have become independent, impact the parents’ aging and social participation processes. Likewise, concern for the future is identified as a recurring aspect due to the children’s lack of support from a social network. It was concluded that public administrations and non-profit organizations should develop social intervention strategies aimed at promoting social participation, guaranteeing external assistance in the home, and providing coexistence resources.

Keywords: older people; social participation; children with disabilities; spina bifida; support; liquid modernity (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: A13 A14 P P0 P1 P2 P3 P4 P5 Z1 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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