Lived experiences of grandparents as primary caregivers of grandchildren with disabilities / Gladen Mhiles C. Belinario, Rizel Joy A. Dales, Manilyn C. Luna, Jasmin Rose M. Napuli, Myka Jeilo A. Pablico

Includes bibliographical references

Abstract
A Research Paper, College of Arts and Sciences, University of Antique, Sibalom, Antique. The study explored the lived experiences of five grandparents as primary caregivers of their grandchildren with disabilities in Antique. A qualitative, phenomenological research was employed to extract the many facets of the grandparents' experiences. Data was gathered through face-to-face interviews using a validated interview guide. Five main themes emerged namely, (a) motivations of caregivers including familial responsibility and empathy for grandchild, (b) fulfilling caregiving responsibilities such as providing basic, medical, and mobility needs and sustained monitoring of grandchild with disability, (c) enduring the weight of caregiving which included physical exhaustion, loss of time for personal and social life, financial constraints, and mental strains and worries, and (d) coping strategies that involved physical self-care, family support, and deepened bond. The study revealed the challenging experiences of grandparents as they fulfill the role of primary caregivers for their grandchildren with disabilities. It provided insights on the meaning they ascribed to their caregiving journey. This research contributes to the body of knowledge on caregiving practices and informs stakeholders, government organizations, healthcare providers, and mental health professionals on the support needed by grandparents who serve as primary caregivers.

Keywords: grandparents, primary caregivers, primary caregivers of grandchildren with disabilities, grandchildren with disabilities, lived experiences

Theses/Dissertations