Rural Grandparent Headed Households: A Qualitative Description

Assessing Diabetes Risk Factors in Rural Dwelling Grandparent Caregivers

“…This sample is representative of rural grandparents in the United States and were predominantly White women, married, and unemployed (Ahmed et al, 2019). However, importantly this sample was below 60 years old and not eligible for older adult services, such as social security or retirement services (Hatcher et al, 2018; Holben & Pheley, 2006). Grandparents in rural Appalachia may not only be younger than national averages but also dependent on government health care coverage (i.e., Medicaid) to treat more than one comorbid chronic disease.…”

Perspectives on Religious and Spiritual Coping among Rural Grandparent Caregivers

“…"Mountain churches" in rural Appalachia tend to reinforce real and fictive kin relationships and provide strong emotional and instrumental support to members of their congregations. For example, research in other Appalachian communities demonstrates that some churches provide childcare for grandchildren (Hatcher, 2018) and assistance to grandparents in accessing governmental aid (Gerard et al, 2006). In summary, a social ecological perspective supports an expectation that the perceived benefits and activities associated with religious or spiritual coping are contextual, specific to the unique social circumstances, and responsive of the social environment surrounding grandparent caregivers' coping efforts.…”

“…These ties are fostered by specific "family churches" or religious congregations. Such church affiliations solidify social ties and provide a sense of order and space (Gerard et al, 2006;Hatcher, 2018;Zimmerman et al, 1990). Within rural Appalachian communities, "mountain churches" often develop special practices and structures that closely corresponds to the particular situations and circumstances of their members (Zimmerman et al, 1990).…”

“…The current study documented that participation in religiously affiliated grandparent support groups provided tangible support (food and outings for grandparents), emotional support, comradery, and respite from childcare responsibilities. Appalachian churches may also provide childcare and positive experiences for grandchildren (Hatcher, 2018). Some religious organizations also provide informational and tangible support by helping grandparents access governmental aid.…”