Reciprocity as a Coping Strategy of the Elderly: A Rural Irish Perspective

The aging process and the mechanisms used by the elderly to cope with age are studied in rural Ireland. Reciprocity is identified as one of the major strategies which reinforce independence among the aged in rural western Ireland. Reciprocity on the part of the aging is manifested in the stem family, sibling relations, pets, neighbors, parental caretakers, financial resources, and family configurations. The policy implications of reciprocity as a coping strategy to help the aged better address the stresses and problems of daily living are discussed.