Michelle Adams has published a new literature review in the Journal of Aging Studies that highlights the unique experiences and challenges faced by grandfathers who become primary caregivers for their grandchildren.
The article is freely available at this link: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0890406525000234
Unlike the well-documented experiences of grandmothers, grandfathers’ roles have been less understood. The review analysed 13 articles and identified two main themes: ‘Change and loss in transitioning to the primary caregiver role’ and ‘Everyday life as grandparent primary caregivers.’ Grandfathers reported significant changes in their social role identity, loss of agency over lifestyle choices, and deficits in parenting knowledge and skills. Their health and wellbeing were also uniquely impacted. The findings emphasise the need for further research to develop tailored support systems for grandfathers in caregiving roles. This review is a crucial step towards recognising and supporting the vital role grandfathers play in their grandchildren’s lives.
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