Support Program to Reduce Anxiety in Grandparents of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Abstract

Introduction: The grandparents of children with autism spectrum disorders show a double concern; because his grandson “will not be like the others” and because of the impact of diagnosis in their children, the children’s parents. This situation generates anxiety and changes in daily life. Objective: Anxiety is evaluated before and after attendance at a family school, and the quality of life in grandparents. Method: The State-Trait Anxiety Questionnaire is administered at the beginning and end of the period - families, and the Family Quality of Life Scale at the end. The school consists of five sessions of two hours each. Anxiety results are analyzed before and after the intervention as well as the quality of life. Results: There is a decrease in state anxiety after school. The quality of life of participating grandparents is good. Conclusions: family schools are an effective tool to reduce anxiety. Offer grandparents a place to share experiences and receive real information about disorders of the Autistic spectrum.