Grandparents parenting grandchildren: assessing health status, parental stress, and social supports.

This study describes the physical and emotional health of grandparents raising grandchildren and the extent to which the health of this at-risk population is affected further by the caregiving role. A sample of 17 grandparents who are primary caregivers to their grandchildren and reside within a three-state metropolitan area were interviewed in their homes during a 1-year period. Data were collected on physical and mental health status and health problems, level of health, level of stress, economic difficulties, and family and supports. Qualitative data analyses using a panel of experts and NUD*IST, and quantitative methods were used. Results showed wide variation in physical and mental health status; however, most participants tended to score high on parental stress-particularly in the child domain. Disruption of social activities, financial problems, and alterations in family relationships were of significant concern.