Chanuka
Being a grandparent is a wonderful experience and it comes with many perks. But did you know that babysitting your grandkids can also lead to a longer life? According to a recent peer-reviewed study, taking care of your grandkids has numerous health benefits that can increase life expectancy. In this blog post, we will delve into the findings of the study and explore how taking care of your grandkids can positively impact your health.
The Study
The study was conducted with over 500 people aged 70 and older in Berlin. Participants were asked about their frequency of caregiving in the last 12 months, which was defined as “looking after or doing something with a grandchild without the parents being present.” This was then scored on a scale of 1 (never) to 7 (every day). The measure for mortality was established by the time to death following the interview.
The Results
The results of the study were quite significant. It was found that adults with caregiving responsibilities had a 37% lower mortality risk than those of the same age with no caring responsibilities. This is a significant finding, as it shows that taking care of your grandkids can have a significant impact on your life expectancy.
#Why is Babysitting Grandkids Good for Your Health?
Researchers say that caring for your grandkids can provide you with a sense of purpose and keep you mentally and physically active. It can also increase happiness, which in turn can lead to a longer life. In fact, according to Sonja Hilbrand, one of the authors of the study, this could be rooted in our evolutionary past.
In our evolutionary past, caring for the next generation was essential for survival. Today, this instinct is still present in many of us, and taking care of our grandkids can help us tap into it.
When we care for our grandkids, we engage in physical activity, socialize, and get a sense of fulfillment, all of which are crucial for our well-being and longevity.
#The Bond with Grandkids
Babysitting your grandkids is not just good for your health, it’s also a great way to create a bond with them. Your grandkids will look up to you and cherish the memories of spending time with you. This bond can have a positive impact on their life as well, as it will give them a sense of security and a positive role model.
In conclusion, babysitting your grandkids can lead to a longer life, according to science. Not only does it provide you with a sense of purpose and keep you active,
but it also creates a bond with your grandkids that they will cherish for the rest of their lives. So, if you have the opportunity to babysit your grandkids, take advantage of it, and enjoy the many benefits it has to off
