title: Caregiving and multigenerational families.
abstract: 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.
authors.affiliation: School of Social Work, University of Pittsburgh, PA 15260.
authors.forename: M
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Baum
authors.forename: M
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Page
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D017028:Caregivers; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D005190:Family; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D012737:Sex Factors