Unseen Heroes: Caregiving Experiences of Elderly Grandmothers in Pakistan

Abstract

Aim of the Study: In Pakistan, a significant number of grandmothers take care of their grandchildren while their parents work or study. In recent years, this role has increased multifold because of the increased presence of women in workforce and women getting into higher education post children. The aim of the study is to examine the experiences of the elderly grandmother who are providing care to their grandchildren and what factors influence those experiences.

Methodology: This qualitative study looked into the lives of 15 elderly caregiving grandmothers aged above 60 years in Lahore providing care to their grandchildren for at least six months. The data was collected through semi-structured interview and analyzed through thematic analysis.

Findings: According to the data, elderly grandmothers had both positive and negative caregiving experiences. The negative experiences of caring for their grandchildren were social isolation as a result of limited social life and interaction with family and friends, as well as increasing physical and emotional health issues. One the other hand, many grandmothers believed that caregiving improved their health and well-being. These experiences were influenced by the duration of caregiving, the number and ages of children, the caregiving support system, and their health status.

Conclusion: The study sheds light on the crucial role of caregiving grandmothers in Pakistani homes, emphasizing their contributions to their families and the economy in the absence of affordable formal childcare. It also emphasizes the significance of raising awareness and providing support to families, in addition to elderly grandparents who may already be struggling because of their advanced age and precarious health. This research supports SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being).