Social Determinants of Dependency and Autonomy in Family Care Relationships for Older Person As Perceived By Representatives of Different Generations. the Case of Poland

The social perception of old age as a stage of life with its inherent qualities is significantly shaped by social factors that are unique to a given society. As societies evolve and economic, political and cultural contexts shift, the perception of old age and the social and familial position of older persons also undergoes change. However, the perception of old age is still often characterised as a stage of life marked by a multitude of losses, including those pertaining to health, memory, social support networks and independence. This implies a responsibility on the part of the immediate environment to provide assistance to a dependent older person. In Polish society, there is still a strong conviction (reinforced by legislative solutions) that this obligation rests with the family. However, there are also indications of gradual changes in this area.

The aim of this paper is to examine the social factors that have shaped the quality of family care relationships for the older persons in recent decades in Poland, with a particular focus on the period between the 1930s and the 1990s. Special attention will be given to the social determinants of dependency and autonomy of the older people. This paper is based on the findings of a qualitative study conducted among individuals representing four generations - the Traditionalist generation, the Baby Boomers, Generation X and Generation Y. Respondents were asked to recall how old age was perceived in the family during their childhood and to share their views on the role of older individuals in the modern family. The comparative analysis of generational perspectives will elucidate the similarities and differences in perceptions of the social factors that, according to interviewees, have altered the nature and quality of family care relationships for older people.