How do older adults experience intergenerational relationships? Different cultures, ambivalent feelings. Issue 8 (3rd August 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: von Humboldt, Sofia; Monteiro, Ana; Leal, Isabel
• Is Part Of: Educational gerontology. Volume 44:Issue 8(2018)
• Page Start: 501
• Page End: 513
• Publication Date: 2018-08-03
• Subjects: Adult education -- Periodicals; Older people -- Education -- Periodicals; Gerontology -- Periodicals; Aged; Geriatrics -- education; Éducation des adultes -- Périodiques; Personnes âgées -- Éducation -- Périodiques; 374
• DOI: 10.1080/03601277.2018.1520528
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0360-1277

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Objective : Intergenerational relationships are central for older adults' well-being. In spite of the reiterated value of intergenerational interactions between older adults and grandchildren, there is paucity of research that has analyzed these relationships at a cross-national level. The current study purports to analyze how older adults conceptualize intergenerational relationships. Method : In this qualitative study, in-depth interviews were conducted with 316 older adults, aged 65–102, currently living at home representing three different nationalities. Verbatim transcripts were examined. Results : Data analysis generated six themes representing intergenerational relationships: affection and reward; interest and integration; quality of grandparent–grandchild interaction; definitions of privacy and boundaries; provision of support; and obligations regarding childcare, supportive, and conflictual. Conclusions : The empirical findings indicated older adults' ambivalence over intergenerational relationships and contradictory expectations of support from grandchildren.