Current State of Monitoring Older Adults by School-Age Children’s Parents

Abstract

Objective: This study examines the current state of monitoring of older adults by parents of school-age children.

Methods: An anonymous, self-administered questionnaire survey was administered to the parents and guardians of three elementary schools.

Results: Of the 344 respondents analyzed, 39 (11.3%) reported being concerned about an older adult, and 16 (41.0%) of them regularly checked on the well-being of the older adult they were concerned about. Among older adult monitoring indicators, items such as “yelling and screaming coming from inside the house” and “the older adult walking unsteadily, appearing unwell” were rated “very worrisome.” Items associated with older adult monitoring included childcare support from older adults in the community, interaction with older adults through neighborly relations and community activities, and a sense of community attachment.

Conclusion: Monitoring was observed regardless of kinship or roots in the community; therefore, enhancing intergenerational interaction and strengthening the sense of community attachment may encourage parents of school-age children to monitor older adults.