Nothing compares to the joy and energy that grandchildren bring to grandparents. A recent study reveals that grandparents, who spend more time with their grandchildren, are less likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease.
Children can fill those around them with energy and joy. A recent study reveals that a moderate amount of time with grandchildren prevents Alzheimer’s disease, increases brain activity and stimulates memory.
In addition to boosting brain function, childcare has been linked to reduced rates of depression. But how is this relationship actually established?
Grandchildren: The relationship that reduces the risk of Alzheimer’s
Researchers of the Center for Aging and Women’s Health in Australia examined the cognitive functions of 180 women who cared for their grandchildren. The results showed that Postmenopausal women who spent one day a week with their grandchildren had a lower risk of developing Alzheimer’s and other cognitive disorders.
However, those who spent five days a week or more caring for their grandchildren had a higher risk of developing neurodegenerative disorders. This is the first study to examine the role of this relationship in cognitive functions. Although the reason for this connection is unclear, it is believed that regular social interaction may have a positive effect on the mental health of older people and reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease.
Grandchild care combats social isolation that can lead to depression and even early death.
In addition to preventing Alzheimer’s and staving off social isolation, other research suggests that the grandchild-grandparent bond has antidepressant benefits for both the elderly and children.
A study by the Boston College Aging Institute looked at the habits of 376 grandparents and 340 children for a full 19 years. They found that the closer they were to each other, the less likely they were to develop depression, and the more supportive the grandparents were, the fewer symptoms of depression they had.