Millions of grandparents around the world play an active role in raising their grandchildren, from occasional babysitting to regular help with daily routines. Recent research reveals that this involvement can positively impact their own cognitive abilities as they age. Scientists analyzed information from almost 3,000 older adults in the United Kingdom over several years. Those who cared for grandchildren, including tasks like playing, helping with homework, preparing meals, or providing transportation, tended to perform better on tests measuring memory and verbal skills.
The study, published by the American Psychological Association, highlighted notable benefits especially for grandmothers. Women who looked after their grandchildren experienced slower rates of cognitive decline during the six-year research period compared to those who did not. Lead researcher Flavia Chereches from the Netherlands explained that the simple act of being an involved grandparent seemed to matter more than the frequency or specific activities. “What surprised us the most was that the fact that someone is a grandparent involved in caring for grandchildren proved more important for cognitive functions than how often they provided that care or what exactly they did with the grandchildren,” said Chereches.
Experts find these results make perfect sense given the nature of grandparenting. Psychologist Dale Atkins, author of a children’s book called Turquoise Butterfly, points out that spending time with grandchildren keeps older adults socially engaged and mentally active. Activities require planning, problem-solving, creativity, and storytelling, all of which stimulate the brain. “You try to understand the way a child thinks and see the world through their eyes. Looking at things from another perspective is really an important cognitive skill,” said Atkins. She added that people often practice these skills less as they grow older without such interactions.
Beyond cognition, interacting with grandchildren supports emotional well-being in later life. A 2024 survey from the University of Michigan’s Institute for Health Policy and Innovation indicated that older adults with grandchildren generally feel less isolated than those without. Atkins noted that mentoring or spending time with a young child combats loneliness by providing a renewed sense of purpose. This emotional boost can be particularly valuable during retirement years when social circles sometimes shrink.
Yet the role of grandparent caregiver comes with potential drawbacks that families should consider. Many view grandparenting as purely joyful, but realities can include physical demands or emotional strain. DeeDee Moore, founder of the advisory platform More Than Grand, observed that grandparents may struggle to admit when the responsibilities feel overwhelming. Over-involvement can lead to tensions with parents or feelings of obligation rather than choice.
Rising childcare expenses have pushed more families to rely on grandparents for support. A recent LendingTree analysis determined that American households with two young children would need an annual income exceeding $400,000 on average to comfortably afford professional care. This financial pressure explains why millions of retired parents step in to help. However, experts stress the importance of voluntary participation for positive effects.
Flavia Chereches emphasized that supportive family dynamics make a difference in outcomes. “Providing care on a voluntary basis, within a family environment that provides support, can have different effects on grandmothers and grandfathers than care in a more stressful environment where they feel undervalued or consider the care not voluntary, but an imposed obligation,” she noted. Open communication about expectations helps prevent resentment. Moore advised that parents should approach discussions ready to listen rather than dictate terms.
Grandparenting clearly offers cognitive and emotional advantages when balanced properly. The involvement encourages mental exercise through diverse interactions that might otherwise diminish with age. At the same time, recognizing limits protects everyone’s well-being. Families benefit most when help flows freely without becoming a burden.
Grandparent-provided childcare remains common across cultures, often filling gaps left by work demands or costs. Studies on aging frequently link social engagement and purposeful activities to reduced risks of cognitive decline. Intergenerational relationships like these create mutual support systems that strengthen family ties. Maintaining an active role in family life contributes to healthier aging overall.
Share your own stories about caring for grandchildren or how it has affected your family in the comments.
