Got Grandchildren? It Turns Out They’ll Keep You Healthy
| 2 min read
When it comes to your health, interacting with your grandkids can help improve your mind, body and spirit. Here are just a few ways touchpoints with the little ones can boost your health:
They sharpen your mind. Researchers for the Women’s Health Aging Project found that spending time with grandkids lowers your risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease and other cognitive disorders. If you’re holding off on having in-person visits right now, find virtual games you can play together that will get both of your minds working. And if they’re older, ask them to give you a lesson on social media. Research shows that using Facebook supports healthy aging—plus, seeing photos of your family and reading what they’re up to can give you an instant happiness boost.
They keep your body active. While it might be hard to see one another in person right now, if you are able to arrange a socially-distant outdoor visit, walking and exploring in nature is a great way to get your heart pumping and to create memories you’ll bond over.
They nurture your soul. A study from Boston College showed that grandparents and adult grandchildren who felt emotionally connected to each other developed fewer symptoms of depression. Bond with your grandkids by telling them about what your life was like when you were their age. Share fun photos and stories from exciting travels or lend them a book you loved when you were younger.
Photo credit: visualspace
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Photo credit: Kelly Sikkema on Unsplash
