The Gerontologist, Vol 31, Issue 6 762-769, Copyright © 1991 by The Gerontological Society of America

ARTICLES

Caregiving and multigenerational families

M Baum and M Page
School of Social Work, University of Pittsburgh, PA 15260.

This paper examines the possibility that the extension of traditional family household boundaries foreshadows an expanded caregiving system as family lines grow longer. An original study of 25 four-generation families, mapping all linear and lateral members, offers findings that confirm evidence found in a literature review. One primary caregiver, either a spouse or daughter, generally shoulders responsibility for members in adversity. A caregiving system encompassing more than two generations in direct descent was not discernible. Problems in caring for the oldest old are noted.

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