The effect of stress proliferation on depression in South African grandparent caregivers

Abstract

This study explored the proliferation of stressors that contribute to depression in grandparents who are caregivers of an adult child with a long-term illness and their grandchildren. The data were drawn from Wave 4 of the Cape Area Panel Study in South Africa and subjected to linear regression analysis to predict depression in these older adults. We found evidence that the combination of primary and secondary care leads to a proliferation of stressors as these older adults experienced higher levels of depression, lower income, and greater food insecurity. Providing financial help to others and declining health also contributed to an increase in depression.