One of the constant aspects of humanity across all time periods and cultures is the presence of grandparents in families, playing a key role in the lives of their grandchildren. Many families look to the eldest generation as a mainstay of support and influence for the youngest one. Life expectancy in the United States and Canada has increased greatly over the years, and with grandparents living longer and healthier lives, the number of seniors spending their twilight years providing hands-on support to their grandchildren has grown exponentially. From childcare to transportation to moral guidance and emotional support, grandparents are vital in bridging the care gap often experienced when both parents have to work to support the family unit.
For some elderly people, their social interactions may only consist entirely of visiting the doctor’s office or the bank and grocery store during their normal errands. For seniors who are still mobile enough to get around, activities like volunteering for a nonprofit, a school, or some kind of litter cleanup crew can be a satisfying and rewarding way to feel useful, give something back to the community, and engage with people from all walks of life, not to mention form new social bonds with like-minded people.
There has been a great deal of research done recently which has shed light on what has been called an “epidemic” of loneliness among seniors. The University of Michigan published a study which found that 25% of adults have reported feeling lonely. And you may not know this, but loneliness is in fact a health problem. Many experts have listed it among health concerns such as smoking or obesity in terms of causing negative health outcomes.
These days, it is easy to get caught up with technology and the accessibility of information on smartphones and tablets. The ability to watch a show, pull up a news story, and learn something new at the touch of the screen can be exhilarating. It is also the reason why the newest generation is one of the most distracted. Whenever possible, encourage the turn of real pages and the imagination and fun that goes along with it. Plant the seed for a desire to learn, read, and grow through reading.
Summer is nearing the end of the season, which means that many families are preparing for their children and teens to head back into school. The flurry of activity this time of year can be tough on parents, many of whom already have busy schedules and jobs on top of arranging things for their kids.
As we age, our daily habits and activities can start to take a toll on our well-being. Find out the benefits of writing letters by hand for seniors.
These days, it is easy to get caught up with technology and the accessibility of information on smartphones and tablets. The ability to watch a show, pull up a news story, and learn something new at the touch of the screen can be exhilarating. It is also the reason why the newest generation is one of the most distracted. Whenever possible, encourage the turn of real pages and the imagination and fun that goes along with it. Plant the seed for a desire to learn, read, and grow through reading.
