The Role of Grandparents in Raising Grandchildren: Challenges and Support

While most grandparents look forward to spending their golden years as 'grandparents,' there are countless situations where aging parents are thrust into the responsibility of raising their grandchildren due to various life-altering circumstances. This article explores the challenges faced by grandparents and the necessary support they need to navigate through these difficult times.

Challenges Grandparents Face in Raising Grandchildren

Grandparents who find themselves raising grandchildren often do so in situations where they are the last resort. This can occur due to tragic events such as the death, disability, severe drug abuse, or severe mental health issues of the child's parents. In more 'favorable' circumstances, grandparents may face adjustment and grieving issues, alongside the responsibilities of full-time caregiving.

Bringing up disabled children: Some grandparents are confronted with the reality of children with significant disabilities and special needs, some of whom might have been damaged through trauma or abuse. High psychological needs: The children in their care may have intense psychological needs that can be overwhelming for grandparents who themselves might be dealing with their own health and aging issues. Stress and strain: Financial hardship, social welfare issues, and legal battles can add to the emotional and physical strain on grandparents.

Often, grandparents find themselves stepping in as the last safe person to ensure that the family remains intact rather than allowing the children to be placed in state care. This can happen during a critical time when grandparents may also be dealing with their own health and aging issues, adding to the overall strain.

Barriers to Support

Many grandparents raising grandchildren report delaying in seeking help, which may be due to a variety of reasons:

Lack of awareness: Grandparents might not be aware of the newer support systems and resources available. Technological disconnect: Grandparents who suddenly become full-time caregivers might find it challenging to adapt to the rapidly changing digital world. Old-fashioned values: There might be an old-fashioned sense of stoicism and pride that makes grandparents reluctant to seek assistance. Shame: There might be feelings of shame or embarrassment, making it difficult for grandcarers to reach out for support.

These barriers can lead to years of struggle for both grandparents and the children they are raising, often exacerbated by drug and alcohol abuse and untreated poor mental health issues. The consequences can be severe, affecting not only the well-being of the grandchildren but also the grandparents’ own health and emotional state.

Support and Resources for Grandcarers

There is immense support and resources available for those in this situation. Google has a wealth of information on grandparents raising grandchildren, grandcarers, and kin-carers. Aunts and uncles, along with other family members, often find themselves in similar situations.

Support groups and advice can be found in every state of Australia, New Zealand (Aotearoa), and the United States. Governments are increasingly recognizing the role of grandparents in raising grandchildren and efforts are being made to provide support and resources.