ABSTRACT
I n this paper we explore the ways in which the U.S. long termcare system shapes care work provided by families of frail olderrelatives. Welfare state policies distribute social resources in accordance with principles ranging from more to less inclusive. These underlying principles shape the experiences of the beneficiaries and their families. Benefits distributed on the principle of universality tend to maximize the amount of assistance the welfare state provides, spreading the risks and costs of dependency or illness across families. All are eligible for and receive benefits, regardless of class, employment, or marital status (Harrington Meyer 1994b; Esp-ing-Andersen 1989; Myles 1988). By contrast, benefits distributed on the principle of targeting tend to minimize the amount of assistance the welfare state provides, concentrating the risks and costs of dependency or illness within families. Only those who meet the requirements for eligibility, usually defined by economic need, receive benefits.
