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Erschienen in: Zeitschrift für Gerontologie und Geriatrie 5/2021

27.08.2020 | Reviews

Extending understanding of grandchild care on feelings of loneliness and isolation in later life

A literature review

verfasst von: Eleanor Quirke, Prof. Hans-Helmut König, MD, MPH, André Hajek, PhD, PD

Erschienen in: Zeitschrift für Gerontologie und Geriatrie | Ausgabe 5/2021

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Abstract

The Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic presents serious challenges across the world. Among these challenges are the possible negative implications for the mental health and well-being of older persons that ongoing social distancing measures may cause. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, a growing body of literature explored the associations between grandchild caregiving, loneliness and social isolation. We summarize the existing literature on this topic. An association between the provision of grandchild care and reduced feelings of loneliness was found in cross-sectional studies; however, a longitudinal study identified possible gender differences in the impact of grandchild care on feelings of loneliness, with the commencement of grandchild care linked to grandfathers feeling lonelier. At the conclusion of the summary, we highlight the need for further research in this field. Further research is of particular relevance given the drastic changes to the way families and older people interact socially, brought about by the COVID-19 global pandemic.
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Metadaten
Titel
Extending understanding of grandchild care on feelings of loneliness and isolation in later life
A literature review
verfasst von
Eleanor Quirke
Prof. Hans-Helmut König, MD, MPH
André Hajek, PhD, PD
Publikationsdatum
27.08.2020
Verlag
Springer Medizin
Erschienen in
Zeitschrift für Gerontologie und Geriatrie / Ausgabe 5/2021
Print ISSN: 0948-6704
Elektronische ISSN: 1435-1269
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s00391-020-01776-5

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