Effectiveness of interventions for grandparent caregivers: A systematic review

Document Type

Journal Article

Publication Title

Marriage & Family Review

Publisher

Taylor and Francis

School

School of Arts and Humanities / School of Medical and Health Sciences / Lifespan Resilience Research Group

RAS ID

22361

Comments

McLaughlin, B., Ryder, D., & Taylor, F. (2017). Effectiveness of Interventions for Grandparent Caregivers: A Systematic Review. Marriage & Family Review, 53(6) 509-531. https://doi.org/10.1080/01494929.2016.1177631

Abstract

Grandparent caregivers face a myriad of challenges that require intervention at various levels. Programs are now available to enhance the lives of grandparent caregivers, and there is evidence, although largely from methodologically inadequate studies, that such interventions are beneficial. This review critically appraised the research on the effectiveness of different interventions for these grandparents. A total of 21 studies were included in the review. Studies were assessed according to research design, methodological quality, and intervention outcomes. Best available evidence suggests that interventions within the cognitive-behavioral spectrum have the most empirical support. Promising approaches that require further research include interdisciplinary case management, support groups, and psychoeducational interventions. To establish an evidence base for interventions designed to promote the well-being of grandparents and alleviate the stress associated with raising grandchildren, there is a need for high quality intervention studies. Future trials need to be rigorous in design and include high quality descriptions of all aspects of methodology to enable appraisal and interpretation of results.

DOI

10.1080/01494929.2016.1177631

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