The role of grandparents in the health of the child who lives in a disadvantaged area

Background: The role played by grandparents in the lives of their children and their family has been increasingly reported upon in recent years. Changes in Irish family life has formed the basis for the new role of... [ view full abstract ]

Background:
The role played by grandparents in the lives of their children and their family has been increasingly reported upon in recent years. Changes in Irish family life has formed the basis for the new role of grandparents as carers for their grandchildren, financial supporters of their children and emotional supporters for children who become lone parents.
Aim and objectives of the study:
The aim of the study was to identify how the role of the grandparents influences the health of the school aged child from a disadvantaged area. The objective of the study was to establish who constitutes the family of the school aged child who lives in a disadvantaged area. To describe how grandparents influence and interact with their grandchildren who live in a disadvantaged area. To establish how grandparents influence the health of their grandchildren both directly and indirectly.
Method:
A case study approach was adopted for the study. Data were gathered through qualitative interviews with children, parents and grandparents.
Sample:
Six grandparents from a sample of fifteen families volunteered to take part in the study.
Analysis:
Thematic analysis utilising NVivo version 11.
Ethical approval:
Ethical approval was sought from the host institution.
Findings:
Findings from the study indicate that the maternal grandparent has a significant role to play within the family unit and in particular with the health and wellbeing of grandchildren.
Conclusions and Implications:
The study highlights the integral role of the maternal grandparent in the lives of their children and grandchildren who live in a disadvantaged community. Findings from the study enhance knowledge in relation to the modern Irish family and will in turn help to inform local and nation policy development for disadvantaged communities.