International Institute for Population Sciences
Deemed to be University (An Autonomous Organization of Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India)

Introduction: Grandchild caregiving plays an important role in intergenerational family support systems in India. While caring for grandchildren may strengthen family bonds, it can also impose emotional and physical strain on older adults. This study investigates the association between grandchild care intensity and depression among the elderly using nationally representative data from India. Methods: The study utilized data from Wave 1 of the Longitudinal Ageing Study in India (LASI, 2017–2018). Older adults aged 60 years and above were included in the analysis. Logistic regression models were employed to examine the relationship between different intensities of grandchild care and depressive symptoms. Grandchild care was categorized as: no care, low care (<15 hours/week), medium care (15–30 hours/week), and extensive care (>30 hours/week). Depression was assessed using a standardized scale included in the LASI survey. Results: Findings indicate a significant association between caregiving intensity and depression. Compared to non-caregivers, older adults providing low levels of care had higher odds of depression (OR = 1.20, 95% CI = 1.03–1.38). Those engaged in extensive caregiving also showed an elevated risk (OR = 1.30, 95% CI = 1.00–1.68). However, medium caregiving intensity (15–30 hours/week) was not significantly related to depressive symptoms (OR = 1.11, 95% CI = 0.89–1.38). Conclusion: The study highlights that both limited and heavy engagement in grandchild care are linked to greater depressive symptoms among older adults in India. These results underscore the dual nature of caregiving—providing both purpose and potential stress. Policymakers and community programs should focus on offering emotional and social support to elderly caregivers to ensure their mental well-being while maintaining intergenerational cohesion.