THE INFLUENCE OF GRANDPARENTHOOD ON LIFE SATISFACTION AND ATTITUDES TOWARDS OLD AGE IN NON-INSTITUTIONALIZED OLDER ADULTS IN THE CONTEXT OF THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC

Abstract

This study aimed to analyze the influence of grandparenthood on life satisfaction and attitudes towards old age in non-institutionalized older adults in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. This is a cross-sectional analytical study with a quantitative approach carried out with elderly people in Brazil. Three instruments were used: a sociodemographic questionnaire, the Life Satisfaction Scale and the Scale for the Assessment of Attitudes Towards Old Age. 200 responses to the questionnaires were obtained from the elderly. Most were 60-69 years old, female and with complete higher education. Most reported having 1 to 2 grandchildren and being satisfied with life. Regarding life satisfaction, the elderly who did not reduce contact with their grandchildren during the COVID-19 pandemic had a higher score (p = 0.0440). Regarding attitudes towards old age, a higher score was observed in the elderly with complete higher education (p = 0.0321), in those who practice physical exercise > 150 min/week (p = 0.0402), in those who spend enough time with their grandchildren (p = 0.0060) and who did not reduce contact with them during the COVID-19 pandemic (p = 0.0070). Several factors associated with grandparenthood with life satisfaction and attitudes towards old age were evidenced. There is a clear influence that helps to encourage active aging and the establishment of protective emotional and affective bonds in the elderly.