What are the social consequences of beginning or ceasing to care for grandchildren? Evidence from an asymmetric fixed effects analysis of community dwelling adults in Germany.

Conclusion: This study identifies a positive association between caring for one's grandchild and one's social network. Men were found to experiences increases in feelings of loneliness, where women did not, suggesting possible divergences and experiences of this role. Grandfathers in particular should receive additional support when commencing the care of a grandchild to mitigate possible feelings of loneliness. This study builds on the growing literature exploring the implications of a grandparents undertaking supplementary care of their grandchildren. PMID: 32067467 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]
Source: Aging and Mental Health - Category: Geriatrics Authors: Tags: Aging Ment Health Source Type: research