Social policies concerning dependence in Spain: contributions and consequences for the elderly and their family caregivers

Abstract

This study presents the evolution of social protection of dependence in Spain from the 1990s to the present, and describes the consequences of the lack of agreement among policy makers with respect to the measures to implement. The elements that dependence policies are based on are analysed, and their positive and negative aspects as well as their consequences for the elderly and their caregivers are emphasised. In view of situations such as a possible breakdown in the family's role of caring for dependants, policies to strengthen the family's role as caregiver are being introduced as part of the "Conciliation of Family and Working Life" program. Although these policies clearly have positive effects, they also imply personal costs and opportunity costs for family caregivers.