Analysis of satisfaction, resilience and SPS in a group of grandparents who interact with their grandchildren during COVID-19

Abstract

Background: COVID-19 is affecting family relationships between grandparents and grandchildren. The aim of this study was to analyze the changes in this interaction, satisfaction and its relationship with two factors of strength/vulnerability of the grandparents during the pandemic. Method: Interviews were conducted with 79 grandparents aged 57 to 89 (M = 71.13; SD = 8.00) on resilience (CD-RISC) and sensory processing sensitivity (SPS). The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and inferential tests. Results: All activities, especially play (33%), were reduced during the pandemic, and satisfaction was medium to high and varied by activity type as well as by grandparents’ age, health status, and proximity of residence to their grandchildren. Resilience was high (76,4%) and related to greater satisfaction and a medium to high educational level. Of the participants, 62% were found to be medium level in SPS, with greater satisfaction measured in cultural transmission activities and in those living further from their grandchildren. Conclusions: During the second year of the pandemic, while shared activities decreased somewhat, the variables of satisfaction and strength of grandparents such as resilience and SPS showed medium-high levels, interacting with each other and with their sociodemographic variables. Their better knowledge could optimize this intergenerational relationship.