Exploring the Impact of Childcare Intensity on Depression Levels among Chinese Caregiving Grandparents

ABSTRACT This study examines the correlation between grandchild care intensity (hours per week and number of care recipients) and depression levels among Chinese grandparents. Data from the 2018 China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study include 7,488 grandparents aged 45 and above. T-tests and chi-square tests compare depression scores, demographics, disability, living arrangements, and satisfaction between caregivers and non-caregivers. ANOVA compares depression differences among non-caregivers, those caring for one grandchild, and those caring for two or more. Ordinary Least Squares regression analyzes the impact of caregiving intensity on depression, controlling for social, psychological, and biological factors. This study aims to shed light on the influence of childcare intensity on grandparents’ depression, while exploring the potential impact of various factors to understand the nuance of caregiving impact on depression. The findings inform family policy makers in the importance of respite care for grandparents and the necessity of accessible childcare services in China.