13. Impact of ageing population on relationships

• What is the trend in the average age of the population in the UK from 1985 to 2019?

  It increased from 35.4 to 40.3 years
• What is the predicted average age of the UK population by 2035?

  42.3 years
• What demographic change is occurring alongside the increase in average age?

  Increase in elderly population, decline in youth
• What opportunity arises from grandparents living longer?

  More involvement in family relationships
• What are the positive aspects of an ageing population regarding grandparents?

  • Grandparents act as mediators in family conflicts
  • They provide childcare, advice, and support
  • They express happiness about their roles
• Who conducted research on grandparents' roles in families?

  Ross (2005)
• How do young people view the role of grandparents in family conflicts?

  As mediators with listening skills
• What term did Julia Brannen coin in 2003?

  Beanpole families
• What characterizes "beanpole families"?

  Extended families with more than 3 generations
• What is the nature of intergenerational ties in beanpole families?

  Weak ties within the same generation
• How can intergenerational relationships support families?

  By providing support during difficult times
• What are the various forms of grandparent care according to June Statham?

  • Occasionally babysitting
  • Regular help with childcare
  • Sole/main provider of childcare
  • Living with grandchildren in multi-generational households
• What financial contributions do grandparents make to families?

  Help with property and child trust funds
• How do grandparents provide flexibility in childcare?

  By caring for sick children and filling gaps
• What are the negative impacts of an ageing population according to feminist concerns?

  • Sandwich generation responsibilities
  • Gendered roles in caregiving
  • Loss of contact after divorce
  • Women's financial risks due to caregiving
• What is the "sandwich generation"?

  People caring for both older relatives and children
• Why is the sandwich generation considered a feminist issue?

  It disproportionately impacts women as caregivers
• How do paternal grandparents typically fare after a divorce?

  They often lose contact with grandchildren
• What financial risks do women face due to the ageing population?

  Higher likelihood of becoming direct caregivers
• How does caregiving work differ between men and women?

  Women often face lower status and pay
• What are the impacts of caring work on individuals?

  • Drains time and money
  • Limits opportunities for personal growth