Experiences of social (in)justice from the perspective of hospitalized older people

a study from the theory of justice by Nancy Fraser

Abstract

Older people are susceptible to various forms of rights violations and, consequently, to multiple forms of social injustice. Their experiences of illness and hospitalization take on even more sensitive dimensions, further increasing their vulnerability to injustice. Drawing on Nancy Fraser’s conception, which considers material redistribution and subjective recognition as essential conditions for the realization of justice, this article discusses experiences of (in)justice from the perspective of hospitalized older people. The objective is to understand how older people interpret their experiences of illness and hospitalization in order to identify factors that either promote or hinder redistribution and recognition. This qualitative field research was conducted through semi-structured interviews with ten older people admitted to a large hospital. For data analysis, the method used was based on the analysis of discursive practices. The findings show that social justice is promoted, in terms of redistribution, when older people have access to adequate income and services that ensure their physical health; and in terms of recognition, when they are welcomed, cared for, and respected in their autonomy as social subjects. Objective barriers to achieving justice include inadequate income, exacerbated by illness-related demands, and the resulting financial burden placed on the family. Negative social perceptions of aging represent a subjective barrier. Redistribution and recognition interact and mutually influence the realities that produce justice or injustice, demonstrating the relevance of the proposed bidimensional framework.