Young Adult Children and Grandchildren in Primary Caregiver Roles to Older Relatives and Their Service Needs

Abstract

Expansion of the family to four generations has resulted in a new population of caregivers to elderly members: young adults. Our study provides both quantitative and qualitative findings on children and grandchildren (N ϭ 43), aged 40 years and younger, serving as the major source of support to an older relative(s). Intervention strategies for professionals in direct contact with this age group are outlined.

Undergraduate caregivers for individuals with chronic conditions: Stressors and needs

“…In line with prior studies of young adult caregivers and college caregivers [6][7][8], it was hypothesized that college caregivers would endorse greater symptoms of depression and distress [7][8] and report lower grade point averages than non-caregiving peers.…”

“…Their marginally lower grade point averages may reflect the cumulative impact of managing multiple demands on their time, cognitive and physical energy, and coursework. Other studies of young caregivers have shown caregiving to be associated with fatigue [6], missed time from school, academic withdrawal [15,16], difficulty adjusting to college [8], declines in academic achievement [4], and difficulty with maintaining social relationships [7]. Alternatively, non-caregivers may come from families where other members have assumed caregiving roles or they may prioritize educational attainment over fulfillment of caregiving roles.…”

“…Similarly, young caregivers report feelings of social isolation and limited peer support because of fewer opportunities for establishing relationships with others outside of their households [5]. Young caregivers are more likely to experience caregiver burden when caregiving coincides with a young adult's plans for higher education, a long-term career, or family goals [7][8]. Furthermore, young caregivers experience an increase in depression after taking on the caregiver role [7].…”

“…Caregiving responsibilities may limit young caregivers' abilities to complete coursework and they may also increase fatigue [5][6]. Dellman-Jenkins, et al [7] reported that young caregivers of older relatives struggled with maintaining a social life, marriage and dating relationships, careers, and school. Similarly, young caregivers report feelings of social isolation and limited peer support because of fewer opportunities for establishing relationships with others outside of their households [5].…”

“…As with other populations of caregivers, the current literature on young adult caregivers suggests that caregiving can interfere with achievement of academic and career goals [4][5][6], limit opportunities for social engagement and sustaining meaningful relationships [5,7], and lead to increased feelings of stress, burden, and depression [7][8]. Scant research has examined the effects of caregiving on mental health, quality of life, academic adjustment, and future plans among young adult caregivers enrolled in college.…”