STUDY: How grandparents are sharpening their mental acuity
In this DML Report…
A study published by the American Psychological Association in the journal Psychology and Aging examined nearly 3,000 grandparents with an average age of 67.
Researchers found that those who provide childcare for their grandchildren experience slower cognitive decline and maintain sharper mental faculties than those who do not. Participants who babysat scored higher on tests of memory and verbal fluency, and these results held after adjustments for factors such as age, health, and socioeconomic status. The benefits appeared consistent regardless of the frequency of caregiving or the specific activities involved.
The cognitive advantages stem from the physical activity, social engagement, and mental stimulation provided by interactions with grandchildren, such as answering questions, playing, and participating in daily routines. Grandparents in Florida shared experiences supporting this, with one stating that caring for grandchildren "keeps your mind active" through constant movement and engagement. Another noted that grandchildren "are teaching me all the time," while a grandfather emphasized the value of "being active" over inactivity.
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Lead researcher Flavia Chereches from Tilburg University in the Netherlands cautioned that these benefits apply primarily to voluntary caregiving in supportive family settings, as excessive stress from primary caregiving responsibilities can negate mental health gains. The study highlights that regular, active involvement—through physical play, discipline, or educational activities—supports cognitive health, but overwhelming duties may increase stress levels and reduce overall advantages.