Estudio del fenómeno de las abuelas y los abuelos cuidadores

Abstract

The main objective of this study is to diagnose the current situation of grandparents who are caregivers in different urban and rural areas of the Ambato canton of Tungurahua province, in order to obtain a specific characterization of the role of the caregiver grandparent. Likewise, as specific objectives, the activities and frequency of care for their grandchildren, the causes that led to the acceptance of the role and the consequences of their development are identified. The quantitative methodology was used through a descriptive study, in which 300 older adults participated, including 236 grandmothers and 64 grandparents who regularly cared for at least one grandchild. In conclusion, the female figure is confirmed as the main caregiver. Similarly, it was discovered that the work activity of the parents is one of the most relevant causes for requesting the intervention of grandparents in the family nucleus. Finally, the new role of the grandfather and grandmother in the family as surrogate parents is highlighted by spending so many years and hours a day with their grandchildren and feeling minimally overloaded when carrying out caregiving activities.