Experts tell 5,000 older grandparents how to manage digital schoolwork

Older adults in Charleston who have taken on the role of raising school-age grandchildren face a curriculum that relies heavily on technology. Many of these caregivers entered this phase of life expecting retirement, only to find themselves managing online portals, teacher applications, and digital tablets. The shift from textbooks to screens has created a learning curve that affects students of all ages, but it presents specific challenges for those who did not attend school in the digital era.

Sam Cradduck, a gerontologist, told the group that feeling confused about these tools is common across all generations. Cradduck noted that younger parents are also struggling to understand the new educational methods and devices. "You're not probably the most confused," Cradduck said. "There are many younger parents that are still trying to learn to navigate the online portals and the tablets that their kids have, not having textbooks." He emphasized that school structures have changed for everyone, including the math standards that have shifted from traditional methods to newer approaches.

Katherine Ambrose, an aging well coach, encouraged caregivers to rely on their past experience rather than feeling defeated by the new tools. She pointed out that while the methods differ, the core task of supporting a child's education remains the same. "It might look different, but the younger parents, they haven't helped kids go all the way through school," Ambrose said. She suggested that the consistency provided by older caregivers is a valuable asset in a child's development.

Amy O'Rourke, an aging expert, recommended that caregivers identify their specific weaknesses and seek out local resources to cover them. She highlighted the public library as a practical starting point for technical help. "I love the library, the librarians will help with the Wi-Fi and the app and give you other resources," O'Rourke said. She also advised caregivers to speak directly with school counselors and parent liaison staff to clarify their roles and find support.

Dr. Rhea Rogers, a board-certified physician, addressed the dual burden these caregivers face while managing their own health and family responsibilities. Rogers noted that older adults often handle their own medical decisions while simultaneously guiding a child's education. "Because as an older adult who thought they were going to retire, you're doing two jobs," Rogers said. She stressed that children value steadiness over perfection in a caregiver's approach.

The experts agreed that the role of the older caregiver functions as a form of mentorship. Cradduck observed that retired individuals often have more available time than dual-working parents, allowing for deeper engagement with children. "Mentorship is what we're to do when we age," Cradduck said. O'Rourke added that these caregivers possess a foundation of life experience that contributes to a child's growth. "You've already learned. You've already gotten educated. So use that, use what you have," O'Rourke said.

The group outlined a set of practical steps for managing these responsibilities. Caregivers were advised to connect with librarians, teachers, tutors, school counselors, and parent liaisons. These resources can assist with technology issues and academic gaps. By leveraging these local supports, older caregivers can focus on providing the consistency and presence that children need, rather than trying to master every digital tool independently.