Grandmother, 73, Raising Grandson Alone Amid Rising Costs

Rhonda Abbott faces financial stress from gas prices, utilities, and age-related job challenges as she cares for her 14-year-old grandson.

Mar. 16, 2026 at 9:05am

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Rhonda Abbott, a 73-year-old woman in Alabama, is raising her 14-year-old grandson alone after adopting him when his mother couldn't care for him. Abbott faces financial stress from rising costs like gas and utilities, as well as age-related challenges in finding a job that accommodates her needs. Despite the difficulties, she is dedicated to providing a stable home for her grandson.

Why it matters

This story highlights the growing trend of grandparents taking on the role of primary caregivers for their grandchildren, often facing financial and logistical hurdles. It sheds light on the challenges older Americans can face in the workforce and the need for more support systems to help grandparents raising grandchildren.

The details

Rhonda Abbott adopted her grandson in 2019 after his mother, her own daughter, was unable to care for him. Abbott had planned to enjoy an empty nest after retiring in 2016, but instead found herself raising a child again. She now works full-time as an administrative assistant for her daughter's company, but has faced age discrimination in finding other jobs. Abbott struggles to make ends meet, with a $1,300 monthly mortgage, $350 car payment, and high utility bills, all while dealing with rising gas and grocery prices. She tries to save money where she can, but often has to dip into those savings to make her paycheck last.

  • Rhonda Abbott adopted her grandson officially in 2019.
  • Abbott retired from her previous job in 2016.
  • Abbott's husband passed away in 2017.

The players

Rhonda Abbott

A 73-year-old woman in Alabama who is raising her 14-year-old grandson after adopting him when his mother couldn't care for him.

Rhonda's daughter

Rhonda's oldest child, who is the mother of Rhonda's grandson. She had a brain trauma as a child and is self-sufficient, but couldn't care for her own son.

Rhonda's son

Rhonda's son who lives in Birmingham and has three children of his own, helping to support Rhonda and her grandson.

Rhonda's other daughter

Rhonda's daughter who lives near her in South Alabama, has four children, and has been a great support to Rhonda and her grandson.

Rhonda's late husband

An attorney who helped Rhonda become the legal guardian of her grandson before he passed away in 2017.

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What they’re saying

“I never thought I'd have to do homework, class projects, or field trips again. The parents of the other children look at us and think, "He lives with his grandmother." It feels like they don't want to have anything to do with me.”

— Rhonda Abbott (Business Insider)

What’s next

Rhonda is currently trying to complete a course in medical coding and billing so she can work remotely, which would save her money on gas and allow her and her daughter to have a more traditional mother-daughter relationship.

The takeaway

This story highlights the financial and emotional challenges facing grandparents who take on the role of primary caregiver for their grandchildren, especially in the face of rising costs and age discrimination in the workforce. It underscores the need for more support systems and understanding from communities to help these families thrive.