Lifelong Learning for Grandparents: Cultural Considerations in Taiwan and the United States¹

Abstract

Education programs for grandparents should focus on aspects of their performance where improvement is needed. Three generations provided perceptions to identify the curriculum content necessary to help older adults adjust to their changing role. The 3,286 participants included 751 Chinese, 777 African Americans, 1,086 Caucasian Americans, and 672 Mexican Americans. Analyses were performed using generation with three levels (grandparent, parent, and grandchild) and culture with four levels (Chinese, African American, Caucasian American, and Mexican American). Results revealed significant differences in perceptions of grandparents across cultures and between generations within cultures. All groups reported strengths of grandparents and limitations in their effectiveness. Guidelines for curriculum are recommended to support programs emphasising grandparent development for each of these cultures.

Key Words:

• Cultural Differences
• Intergenerational Learning
• Grandparents;
• Family Harmony
• Education for Elderly