Abstract

The essay records the changes in family organization for the importance of grandparents in these years of crisis. Their contribution is made in three areas: significant economic aid, organizational support, emotional support. It is an extraordinary contribution that has alleviated the consequences of the collapse, not just financial, of our country. But led by the generation that is usually defined as ‘lucky', a heavy existential commitment. The presence of grandparents, essential in cases of family separation to ensure security, continuity and identity to the grandchildren, would entail the risk that their children, especially when they return to live in the family of origin, regress to a state of infantile dependence. The problems are not lacking, but the ethics of solidarity and generosity that are testifying is a heritage rich in possibilities and promises a view to a redefinition of "family form".