I talked to over 100 grandparents — they say their role is wildly different than they expected

Many of America's grandparents are taking on more responsibilities, from caring for grandchildren full-time to providing more financial assistance.

Maggie Shannon, Annie Flanagan and Mike Kai Chen for BI; Courtesy of Susan Freeman and Noe Parenteau

Dorenne Simonson didn't anticipate being a mother again — especially not at 66.

Simonson, who manages a direct care office in New Jersey, took over as the primary caregiver for her granddaughter when her daughter was unable to care for her, just two months after giving birth.