Intergenerational Care Dynamics: Examining the Impact of Grandchild Care on Loneliness in Aging Populations

Dario Mustac , University of Zagreb, Faculty of Economics & Business
Petra Medimurec, University of Zagreb, Faculty of Economics & Business
Ivan Cipin, University of Zagreb, Faculty of Economics and Business, Department of Demography
Sime Smolic, University of Zagreb, Faculty of Economics & Business
Margareta Fabijancic, University of Zagreb, Faculty of Economics & Business

In the context of demographic change, the relationship between grandparents and grandchildren has undergone significant transformation. This research investigates the influence of providing care to grandchildren on the experience of loneliness among older adults. Notably, a substantial portion of European grandparents remains uninvolved in grandchild caregiving, potentially contributing to elevated rates of loneliness among seniors. Loneliness can have profound implications for the physical and mental well-being of older adults. Adult children often serve as the primary source of support for older adults, thus increasing opportunities for social interaction. While previous studies have established a link between having children and reduced loneliness, the protective effect of having grandchildren against loneliness has received limited scholarly attention. The arrival of grandchildren represents a pivotal event in the aging process, with the potential to positively impact self-esteem, future optimism, and social cohesion. However, investigations into the role of grandchild caregiving in mitigating loneliness have yielded mixed results, highlighting the influence of gender differences in this context. This study investigates the link between grandchild caregiving and loneliness during the COVID-19 pandemic, considering gender disparities and regional variations across Europe. Utilizing data from the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe (SHARE), we present preliminary findings. Initial results indicate that older individuals engaged in providing grandchild care, particularly those who do not live alone, exhibit lower levels of loneliness. Gender disparities are evident, as women tend to report higher levels of loneliness. While regional variations were examined, they did not yield statistically significant outcomes.

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 Presented in Session 99. Flash session Loneliness, Pandemic and Care