Grandparents parenting grandchildren: assessing health status, parental stress, and social supports

J Gerontol Nurs. 2005 Mar;31(3):43-54. doi: 10.3928/0098-9134-20050301-09.

Abstract

This study describes the physical and emotional health of grandparents raising grandchildren and the extent to which the health of this at-risk population is affected further by the caregiving role. A sample of 17 grandparents who are primary caregivers to their grandchildren and reside within a three-state metropolitan area were interviewed in their homes during a 1-year period. Data were collected on physical and mental health status and health problems, level of health, level of stress, economic difficulties, and family and supports. Qualitative data analyses using a panel of experts and NUD*IST, and quantitative methods were used. Results showed wide variation in physical and mental health status; however, most participants tended to score high on parental stress-particularly in the child domain. Disruption of social activities, financial problems, and alterations in family relationships were of significant concern.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Black or African American / psychology
  • Caregivers / psychology*
  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Female
  • Health Status
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Male
  • Mental Health
  • Middle Aged
  • Parenting / psychology*
  • Stress, Psychological*