As a grandparent, you are in a unique position to influence the life of your grandchildren for years to come. The fondest memories that many Americans carry with them involve quality time with the grandparents in their life. Your specific role in the family dynamic may differ depending on your age, physical capabilities, or where you live. However, an active presence as a grandparent not only conveys benefits to the children but to yourself as well. Continue reading to learn the importance of a close relationship between grandkids and grandparents!
Benefits That Grandparents Receive
If you live near your children, you probably have had many experiences where they phone you to ask for help watching the kids. This time allows you to gain unique experiences and memories.
Wrangling young grandkids can keep you running – which is why a generous amount of time spent with young children leads to improved health outcomes for older Americans. According to the CDC, 31 million Americans aged 50 and older do not get adequate exercise. The CDC also notes that “physical activity reduces the risk of premature death and can delay or prevent many chronic diseases, including heart disease, type 2 diabetes, dementia, and some cancers.” Your grandkids are providing a valuable service, a fun way to exercise and improve your health!
Emotional health is just as important as physical health. Studies have routinely found that a close bond with grandkids reduces the risk of severe depression and loneliness in older individuals. As we age, especially if we live alone, there are fewer chances for social interaction. Still, many Americans can combat this feeling by spending quality time with their family whenever possible.
We have yet to discuss the benefits your grandkids will surely take away from extended contact with their grandparents, but this feeling of mentorship and guidance is a wholly unique experience that leaves many elderly Americans with a new purpose in life. By passing on your knowledge, skills, and love, you can positively influence your family and community for innumerable years to come.
Benefits That Grandkids Enjoy
As a grandparent looking to take a more active role in your grandkids’ lives, you obviously love and cherish them. Therefore, whatever benefits and improvements to life your grandkids receive through their relationship with you feel even more impactful.
Most commonly, grandparents act as an unconditionally loving and generous parental figure in a child’s life. A parent’s stern hand and rules are essential, but kids will love and adore a grandparent who spoils them in ways their parents can or will not. Grandparents acting in this capacity also play an important role in the development and confidence of young children. Compared to a working parent, grandparents have the means to devote time to extracurriculars and similar after-school activities, creating a constant supportive figure in their life.
Grandparents can also positively impact young children’s thoughts, minds, and habits going forward. Throughout your life, you probably developed many life skills and an abundance of knowledge that will help your grandkid navigate the complexity of life. Specifically, it has been shown that young kids will copy and apply the habits of their grandparents if often exposed to them. This means that you have the opportunity to instill healthy eating habits, a strong work ethic, or any other positive life outlook in your grandkids by devoting time and effort to their development.
The bond between a grandparent and a grandchild is one of the most vital and pure relationships we experience in life. Don’t miss the opportunity to spend time with your grandkids if given a chance. It will have a lifelong impact.
A Banyan Residence is an assisted living and memory care center located in The Villages.
