The Lived Experiences of Female Immigrant Carers in Madrid, Spain: A Phenomenological Study

Abstract

Background: Immigration and population ageing represent circumstances with important sociocultural and economic repercussions. Methods: A qualitative study using interpretative phenomenological analysis was conducted to understand the daily lives and the work of immigrant women dedicated to caring for older citizens. In-depth interviews and discussion groups were carried out in a group of 40 immigrant carers. Data were analysed via the constant comparative method. Results: Three qualitative themes emerged from the data: ‘difficult lives’, ‘working in the home’, and ‘the vision of the other’. This study highlights the many difficulties encountered by this population. A sense of vulnerability was described while fulfilling their professional duties due to their migrant condition, experiences of gender inequality, and work status. An emotional connection is necessary to provide care, which is impossible in cases of discrimination. Discussion: Administrative regularisation is necessary to improve the quality of immigrant carers’ working conditions.