Sofie Ghazanfareeon Karlsson

Caring while living apart

Abstract In recent years, researchers have paid increasing attention to die issue of care in die new types of family and partner relationships. The aim of this study is to examine expectations and attitudes concerning care among elderly people in LAT (Living Apart Togetiier)- relationships in Sweden, that is, people who have a long-term intimate relationship, but who do not share a common home. Questionnaires were completed by 116 elderly people in LAT-relationships. Partners are ranked as the main providers of care, especially by men, but mere is considerable variation in die answers. This seems to be principally related to the degree of flexibility in this type of relationship. Some individuals see a LAT-relationship as a marriage-like relationship, while otiiers see it primarily as a type of relationship mat guarantees diem the possibility of maintaining tiieir own independent way of life.