Caring for those who care: the experiences of Filipina American caregivers

Although there is a significant number of Filipina Americans in caregiving, their narratives and stories have yet been explored. This purpose of this research is to look into (1) why Filipina Americans enter caregiving as a profession? and (2) what are the experiences of Filipina Americans as paid caregivers? Qualitative data analysis methods were used to complete this study, which included the sample selection, data collection, data analysis, limitations, and my positionality as a researcher to this thesis. The key findings of this thesis include Filipina Americans entering paid caregiving as a profession due to the following reasons: sacred work, women’s work, and work allowing them to survive. The key findings of the experiences of Filipina American caregivers were that they were also 24-hour care and domestic service providers, and that their health was impacted. This research was meant to allow stories of Filipina American caregivers to become visible, heard and recognized for the work that they provide to those ill and sick. As this study demonstrates, Filipina American caregivers play a major role providing crucial care for elderly and individuals with dire illnesses. Their work and this study contributes to a larger need of support for caregiving and the role of care work across the United States.