The Importance of Grandparents

FSG Senior Program Case Manager Emily Mysel, LCSW, reflects on the special relationship between grandparents and grandchildren.

I have often believed that the loss of one’s grandparents closes the door to one’s childhood.  For many, childhood memories of grandparents can be idyllic ones filled with laughter, an abundance of sweets and unconditional love.  While my grandparents’ roles shifted as they aged, I was fortunate to have three of my four grandparents actively present in my life until two years ago.  Today, at the age of 34, I am blessed to have my maternal 91-year-old grandmother in my life and be part of my son’s (and soon-to-be newborn’s) life as well.

Multi-generations have become a changing trend as people live longer.  According to the University of Florida’s research on “Family Relationships in an Aging Society” the 2000s consist of more generations living at the same time. Families are having fewer children, but grandparents and great-grandparents are living longer.  There are currently 70 million grandparents in the nation (Metlife’s 2013 Survey-Grandparents Investing in Grandchildren).  In a study conducted by Oxford University and the Institute of Education in London, it was noted that children are ordinarily happier when grandparents are involved in their childhood.  For many families, grandparents provide emotional support while parents are working and bring stability into the lives of their grandchildren, especially when families are facing adversity or experiencing crisis situations.

Reflecting on my childhood, I realize how influential my grandparents were on the choices I made and the values I have.  As research illustrates, grandparents contribute in a variety of ways during a child’s formative years.  In my experience, my grandparents provided wisdom and advice in moments of uncertainty.  They fostered my growth and independence. Their love was constant, present, and uncomplicated.  A study conducted by Boston College found emotionally connected grandparents and grandchildren reduced depressive symptoms for both age groups.  The research showed that the longer people live, the more important these bonds become between grandparents and adult grandchildren.

Summer was often the best time to visit my grandparents and create these special memories.  As summer is upon us, find some special time with your grandchildren. Glencoe has an array of events and is surrounded by various places to visit.