Mantelzorgondersteuning in cultureel divers Utrecht: intergenerationele solidariteit in relatie tot overbelasting

Abstract

As caregiver burden is a current problem, there is a demand for suitable interventions. Support provided by U Central (a Dutch welfare organisation) is evaluated, in specific the course ‘Increase your resilience!’, and its suitability to culturally diverse caregivers in Utrecht. The caregivers differ in social economic status and ethnicity (Turkish, Moroccan and native Dutch citizens). Aside from the evaluation, the relationship between caregiver burden and intergenerational solidarity is approached. Data is collected through twenty-three semi-structured interviews with fifteen caregivers (nine took part in ‘Increase your resilience’), two volunteers and two fellow U Central workers, and seven fellow workers of the Utrecht neighbourhood team. Existing theories are discussed in the light of new results. It is stated that cultural sensitive support measures, collaborations with other welfare organizations, and gaining of trust are essential to reach Turkish and Moroccan caregivers. Conceivably, intergenerational solidarity is associated more strongly with obligation than with voluntary intentions, and a positive relationship between intergenerational solidarity and caregiver burden is suggested. It is proposed that a mixture between religion, culture, upbringing, family closeness and personality influence attitudes towards intergenerational solidarity. More research on intergenerational solidarity and caregiver burden is needed.