Evolution in intergenerational exchanges between elderly people and their grandchildren in Taiwan; data from a multiple round cross-sectional study from 1993 to 2007
2011

Changes in Grandparent-Grandchild Care in Taiwan

Sample size: 868 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Tsai Feng-jen, Motamed Sandrine, Elia Nadia, Rougemont André C

Primary Institution: Institute of Social and Preventive Medicine, University of Geneva

Hypothesis

Society has evolved over time in that elderly adults take more care of their grandchildren than before.

Conclusion

The study shows an increasing trend in grandparental care for grandchildren in Taiwan from 1993 to 2007.

Supporting Evidence

  • The percentage of elders providing grandchild care increased from 7.7% in 1993 to 19.4% in 2007.
  • Significant associations were found between grandchild care and factors like age, gender, and health status.
  • More elders in their 60s and 70s are providing care compared to previous years.

Takeaway

Grandparents in Taiwan are taking care of their grandchildren more than they did in the past.

Methodology

Data from three waves of a national survey were analyzed using chi-square tests and logistic regression.

Potential Biases

Potential underreporting of grandchild care due to cultural perceptions.

Limitations

The study's findings are correlational and do not establish causation; age of grandchildren was not specifically considered.

Participant Demographics

Elders aged 60 and over, with varying characteristics including age, gender, education, and living arrangements.

Statistical Information

P-Value

< 0.0001

Confidence Interval

95% CI

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1471-2458-11-639

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