Transnational families and the circulation of homecare: Romanian Badanti (caregivers) in Italy

Based on interviews with Romanian badanti--migrant caregivers who typically work with elderly Italians--explored the different types of homecare that they provide and their consequences for the circulation of care and assistance in the area of the Italian city of Trente. The study findings indicate that in spite of the geographical separation, badanti were able to continue to provide care for their families that they had “left behind” in Romania. The study showed that physical proximity is not required for caregiving practices, and that badanti remain actively involved in caring for their own families even as they provide residential care for members of Italian families.