Impacts of intergenerational caregiving on grandparents’ health: Implications for SDG-3

Abstract

Due to the pressure in the labor market, an increasing number of young parents are entrusting the responsibility of taking care of their children to their retired parents. This study aimed to assess how intergenerational caregiving impacted on the physical and mental health of grandparents. We found that care provision can significantly improve grandparents’ physical health and reduce their depression index scores. The positive impacts were more significant for women, middle-aged adults (45-60 years old), and grandparents living in rural area. The positive impacts stem from the increasing intergenerational economic support, spiritual comfort, and social interaction. The study has significant policy implications that align with Sustainable Development Goals (SDG-3). Firstly, it is crucial to promote intergenerational cooperation and develop social support policies that address the needs of caregivers, which help improve their health and alleviate excess caregiving burdens. Second, the government should establish a socialized and market-oriented childcare service system, which in turn can stimulate economic development and lay the foundation for green economic recovery. Thirld, it is important to ensure coherence and alignment between family policies and labor protection policies to enhance the policy impact.