Subsidiarity as a Framework for Care of the Elderly

In the United States – and, indeed, around the world – changing demographics reflect a steadily aging population. As families grow smaller and more far-flung and as care costs escalate, conversations about elder care are complex and, often, heart breaking. While in the past it was generally presumed that care of elders was a family obligation, today that is less often the norm. Public policy makers who navigate this complex arena have decisions to make as to whether policy should be viewed as a way to replace the care once provided by families, as a scheme to assist families in providing this care, or a blend of both.Lucia Silecchia, Professor of Law and Associate Dean for Faculty Research at The Catholic University of America’s Columbus School of Law joined us to discuss the ways in which subsidiarity can be a critical part of these urgent conversations. Support the show