Caring for Grandchildren and Its Association with the Mental Health of Grandparents in India: A Study Based on LASI Wave-1.

Gursimran Singh Rana, International Institute for Population Sciences (IIPS)

This study explores the relationship between grandchild care and depressive symptoms among elderly individuals in India using data from the Longitudinal Ageing Study in India (LASI, 2017-18). The sample includes 31,902 older adults aged 60 and above. Time spent on grandchild care is categorized as high (20+ hours/week), medium (8-20 hours/week), and low (less than 8 hours/week). Depressive symptoms are measured using the 10-item CES-D scale. Descriptive analysis shows that older adults, especially men aged 80 and above, spend the most time on grandchild care. Women, in general, provide more care than men. Multivariate logistic regression indicates that those providing moderate care (8-20 hours/week) have lower odds of depressive symptoms, trouble concentrating, and loneliness, along with higher odds of happiness. However, caregiving beyond 20 hours/week does not offer additional mental health benefits and may lead to fatigue. The findings suggest that while moderate grandchild care is beneficial for mental well-being, excessive caregiving can be taxing. Policymakers should consider supporting elderly caregivers to balance caregiving responsibilities and their well-being.

Keywords: Older Adults and Intergenerational Relations, Health and Morbidity, Children, Adolescents, and Youth, Families, Unions and Households

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