IMPROVING HEALTH AND WELL-BEING OF GRANDPARENTS RAISING GRANDCHILDREN: A STRENGTHS-BASED INTERVENTION. (8th November 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Fruhauf, Christine; Yancura, Loriena; Fox, Aimee; Riggs, Nathaniel; Greenwood-Junkiermeyer, Heather; Mendoza, A N
• Is Part Of: Innovation in aging. Volume 3(2019)Supplement 1
• Page Start: S356
• Page End: S356
• Publication Date: 2019-11-08
• Subjects: Aging -- Periodicals; Gerontology -- Periodicals; 612.67
• DOI: 10.1093/geroni/igz038.1292
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2399-5300

Abstract

Abstract: Many grandparents raising grandchildren experience depression. Few interventions take a strengths-based approach to improve their mental health. To address this gap, this study utilized an adapted version of Powerful Tools for Caregivers (PTC) for grandparents (PTC-G) to improve their self-care, communication, and self-efficacy. Grandparents completed self-assessments including the CES-D short form prior to the intervention, immediately after the 6-week program, and at 6-months. Focus groups were also conducted during the 6-month follow-up to further explore positive behavior change. Data from all sources were analyzed to show that the PTC-G program significantly lowered depressive symptoms of grandparents raising grandchildren. Qualitative data shows that grandparents report increased awareness and use of self-care practices and community services. By improving the health and well-being of grandparents raising grandchildren, the PTC-G intervention shows promise in reducing depression and improving long-term mental health outcomes in vulnerable grandfamilies.