shared caregiving
Also called: giliran merawat
Dividing tasks and costs among family members to care for a sick parent.
What it means
Shared caregiving is dividing the task of caring for a parent or family member who is sick among several family members. The division can be shifts of time, help with costs, or a combination of both. In Indonesia, this pattern is commonly used so the burden doesn't pile onto one person.
Why it matters for families
Without a clear division, one family member can wear themselves out carrying the care alone. This often sparks conflict because each person's contribution isn't visible. Agreed-upon shared caregiving makes the burden lighter and keeps family relationships intact.
Example
For example, three siblings make a schedule to take turns accompanying their parent at the hospital, two days each in rotation. Medicine and transport costs are split according to an earlier agreement. The schedule is posted in the family group chat so everyone knows their task.
Common misunderstanding
Many think shared caregiving is only about money. In fact, time and energy are also part of the contribution that need to be valued and shared fairly.