This book analyzes the phenomenon of family care for three populations of adult dependents with chronic disabilities: adults with developmental disabilities; adults with serious, persistent mental illness; and the frail elderly. Family care of relatives spanning the life course and across cultures is emphasized.

IntroductionWhy a Feminist Perspective?PART ONE: THE CHANGING SOCIETAL CONTEXT FOR CAREGIVINGAmericäs Changing FamiliesThe Changing American Economy and WorkforceChanging Health Care Needs and Long-Term Care ServicesPART TWO: THE CONTEXT, EXTENT AND NATURE OF CAREGIVING FOR DEPENDENTSThe Social, Political, and Historical Context of Caregiving for DependentsThe Gendered Nature of CareThe Consequences of CaringPART THREE: A FEMINIST CRITIQUE OF CURRENT POLICIES AND PROGRAMSA Feminist Critique of Americäs Family PolicyA Feminist Critique of Long-Term Care PoliciesA Feminist Critique of Family-Related Benefits in the WorkplacePART FOUR: TOWARD A FEMINIST AGENDA FOR FAMILY CAREGIVERSEconomic Supports A Feminist ApproachSocial Services and Social SupportsGender Justice Achieving a More Family-Responsive WorkplaceNational Health Care Reform and Long-Term Care A Feminist PerspectiveFeminist Strategies for Change Toward a National Caregiver Coalition