Eivind Ertesvag 
Spending time with grandchildren may be more than just family joy and warm moments. New research suggests it could also help keep the brain sharp for longer.
A study published in the journal Psychology and Aging indicates that grandparents who regularly spend time caring for their grandchildren tend to perform better on memory and language tests.
Researchers believe the social interaction may act as a protective factor against cognitive decline later in life.
Studied nearly 3,000 grandparents
The study followed almost 3,000 grandparents in England with an average age of 67.
Participants answered questions about how often they spent time with their grandchildren and what kinds of activities they did together. They also completed several tests measuring memory and verbal ability.
The results were clear.
Grandparents who spent time caring for their grandchildren generally performed better on the cognitive tests than those who did not.
The effect appeared regardless of whether the meetings were frequent or only occasional.
Time together matters most
Researchers emphasize that it may not necessarily be the activities themselves that make the difference.
It’s the time spent together.
Playing in the park, baking, picking children up from daycare, or simply spending time together may be enough to stimulate the brain.
Social connections, new experiences, and mental engagement have long been linked to better brain health.
More activity in everyday life
One of the grandparents in the study, Swedish grandmother Annika Hansson, told Nyheter24 she was not surprised by the findings.
– Of course it’s positive. It’s so stimulating to spend time with them.
She explained that being with her grandchildren often leads her to do things she normally would not do on her own.
– I would never go sledding alone, even though I think it’s fun.
It can also be physical exercise
Spending time with children often involves more physical activity than many people realize.
Running around in a park, visiting a swimming pool, or going for walks can easily turn into a small workout.
– Being with children is also physically demanding and keeps the body active.
Researchers behind the study point out that the combination of social interaction, mental stimulation, and physical activity may explain why spending time with grandchildren can have such positive effects on the brain.
