Many different studies indicate that seniors who have the chance to socialize reap several health benefits. Spending time with younger loved ones remains part of the important social circle and benefits both generations alike. Here are a few reasons aging adults should spend time with their grandkids.
Encourage Physical Activity
Healthcare providers advise seniors to remain as physically active as possible. Children are naturally active, and their presence often requires physical activity on the part of the grandparent. Up to 58 percent of older adults who spend regular time with their grandchildren report being more active.
Getting regular exercise is one of the best ways for aging adults to maintain their health. Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional home care. Harrisburg Home Care is here to help your loved one accomplish daily tasks, prevent illness, and focus on living a healthier and more fulfilling life.
Enhance Their Knowledge
The relationship between grandparents and grandchildren benefits both intellectually. Grandparents commonly pass knowledge and skills down to younger generations, and they also typically have the patience and time to act as tutors if the need should arise. In turn, children can teach their grandparents about current trends, technology, and other topics.
Prevent Isolation
Researchers from Boston College learned that when older adults spent time with their grandchildren, both generations were less likely to experience emotional health issues. Grandparents and grandchildren typically offer each other unconditional love, support, and assistance. The positive social interaction allows both generations to live happier, more fulfilling lives. Simple acts such as receiving a phone call, having lunch, or taking a walk together all strengthen the bond between grandparents and grandchildren while preventing isolation.
Protect Cognitive Health
Australia’s Women’s Healthy Ageing Project followed 186 grandmothers who cared for their grandchildren. The organization discovered that seniors acting as caregivers for young children one day each week were less likely to develop Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia. The study suggested the brain stimulation involved in interacting with the youngsters keeps cognitive functioning at optimal levels. The women also obtained higher scores on memory and other cognitive tests compared with seniors who had no relationships with grandchildren.
Reduce the Risk of Depression
Older adults who no longer feel loved, needed, or respected are at a greater risk of developing depression, which has been known to contribute to other medical conditions. Boston College scientists also followed 376 grandparents and 340 grandchildren over the course of two decades. They found that a close relationship between seniors and grandkids decreased the likelihood of developing depression in both generations.
Promote the Emotional and Social Intelligence of the Grandkids
Spending time with grandparents also holds several benefits for the grandchildren. From a young age, the relationship they have with their grandparents provides a wealth of information regarding how to perceive and interact with others. Grandchildren learn how to care for and trust others, conduct themselves in social situations, and appropriately interact with others. They also gain a better understanding of how to work and cooperate with people while developing a keener insight into various situations. The people skills learned benefit them throughout their lives.
When your loved one isn’t spending time with the grandkids, he or she can benefit greatly from the companionship of an in-home caregiver. Elderly care providers can benefit aging adults in a variety of ways. From cooking nutritious meals to offering timely medication reminders, the dedicated caregivers at Home Care are available to help your elderly loved one 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. To learn more about our premier at-home care, give us a call at (717) 540-4663 today.