A phenomenological study on older persons as a breadwinner of A skipped-generation family: day by day coping journey in Thai context

“We Were Held in Bondage”: A Case Study on Grandparents Raising Grandchildren in Skipped Generations in Rural Northern Thailand

“…Tey were willing to sacrifce the end of their lives for their family, allowing their family members to save money and ofering their grandchildren a secure environment, encouragement, and unconditional love. In the Tai cultural context, certain grandparents underscore the signifcance of beliefs and Buddhism, guiding their mindset that performing benevolent acts for family members will attract positive karma into their lives [20,28]. Moreover, most of the study participants in our research expressed the hope of remaining continually with their grandchildren [25,37,38].…”

“…However, as of now, no study has delved into the experiences and perspectives of grandparents in skipped-generation families in Tailand [19]. Tese grandparents difer from the mainstream population, primarily due to their limited educational and economic opportunities and inequities in healthcare services [20]. In order to support grandparents in caring for and promoting their grandchildren's health, it is crucial to gather information regarding their challenges, the obstacles they face, and the support they need.…”

Feasibility and Acceptability of an ABCD Program for Child Development Among Skipped Families in Rural Thailand: A Pilot Study

“… 5 In Thailand, the number of grandparents raising grandchildren is disproportionately higher, with more than 400,000 skipped-generation families accounting for two percent of all families in the country; the majority of these families (76%) reside in rural areas, and 43.5% of these older persons work to provide for their grandchildren’s needs. 6 Chiang Rai Province showcases a unique socio-cultural environment defined by a diverse population, poverty, and rural communities. Numerous families in the province grapple with economic challenges, compelling parents to explore work opportunities beyond their immediate communities and leaving the children in the care of grandparents.…”

“…Studies have shown that the experience of caring for their children while handling one’s own health problems can significantly impact both the well-being of the grandparents and the grandchildren. 5 , 6 , 8 Changes in family routines and increased stress levels can have negative emotional and physical health outcomes for grandparents. 4 , 9 Moreover, some grandparents may feel a sense of servitude toward their children and grandchildren, which can further exacerbate the burden of raising their grandchildren and negatively impact the grandparents’ physical and emotional health.…”

“… 4 , 9 Moreover, some grandparents may feel a sense of servitude toward their children and grandchildren, which can further exacerbate the burden of raising their grandchildren and negatively impact the grandparents’ physical and emotional health. 6 The burden of raising grandchildren increases when the children have physical or behavioral problems. Such situations can lead to additional stress and can pose significant challenges for grandparents who may not be equipped to handle these specific needs.…”