Study Confirms Grandparents Who Babysit, Live Longer
Need a babysitter for a much needed date night with your significant other? Don’t overlook the grandparents.
A new study in Germany has found grandparents who babysit their grandkids, live longer.
The researchers analysed 500 seniors in the Berlin Aging Study, and the results showed those that babysat children had a lower mortality risk by 37%, than those seniors who didn’t care for children.
The study found babysitting was good for seniors as it increased their physical activity and their mental state. It also relieved stress.
However, the study also found, if grandparents took on too much care responsibility, the health benefits would cancel out. Balance and moderation are key when looking after grandchildren.
Dr. Ronan Factora, of the Cleveland Clinic explained, “You want to make sure that you find that right balance where you are doing what you can to stay active, doing good for the folks that you’re helping out with, but don’t do too much where you get to the point where you’re overly stressed.”
The social interaction between grandparents and children is beneficial for parties. Increased brain activity is a positive effect for grandparents, and for the children, they experience better stability and emotional support.
Overall, the study shows how important it is to have grandparents, or a senior influence in a child’s life. Everyone benefits – including mum and dad, who get to spend child-free time together.
The 37% increase in mortality rate is more likely due to the fact that the grandparents are being cared for more in their later years by their children; a consequence of being more involved with and helping out their children and grandchildren. God help my MIL.