Balance or Unbalance:Effects of Intergenerational Caregiving on Health among the Middle-Aged and Older Sandwich Generation
This study employs a mixed research method within the four-generation framework to investigate the effects of intergenerational caregiving patterns(caregiving for older parents,caregiving for young grandchildren,and caregiving for both)on the health of this generation,and their mechanisms.Quantitative research has revealed that caregiving for young grandchildren has a positive impact on their mental health.In contrast,caregiving for older parents has been found to have a detrimental effect on their mental health,highlighting the phenomenon of"inter-generational imbalance"in the health effects of intergenerational caregiving.Furthermore,care-giving for both,which involves providing care to both older parents and young grandchildren,has been found to have a negative impact on their physical health.However,it can promote their mental health.Qualitative research has provided insights into the mechanisms underlying the"intergenerational imbalance"of health effects,which includes the reverse effect of institutional shortage,the soft constraints of community networks and the cultural identity of family responsi-bility.Importantly,the observed"intergenerational imbalance"in health effects may further lead to"intergenerational imbalance"in resource allocation,particularly disadvantaging older adults and exacerbating their care deficits.To address this issue,it is crucial for social policies to acknowledge and respond to the"intergenerational imbalance"within family.
Four-Generation FamilyIntergenerational CaregivingMiddle-Aged and Older Sandwich GenerationMental and Physical HealthIntergenerational Imbalance
万方数据
维普
