There's nothing sweeter than spending quality time with your grandkids. And now, a new study finds that grandparents who babysit at least once a week are less likely to develop Alzheimer's disease. This certainly is great news for grandparents!
The study, published in Menopause, the journal of the North American Menopause Society, finds post-menopausal women who helped with childcare at least one day per week lowered their risk of developing cognitive disorders, noting that the regular social interaction helps seniors stay mentally healthier.
The study does, however, state that too much time with the grandchildren — five or more days a week — negatively impacted brain function. Most of the grandparents felt overextended and the demand to take care of the kids took a toll on their health.
An estimated 5.2 million Americans have Alzheimer’s disease and almost two-thirds of American seniors living with Alzheimer's are women, according to the Alzheimer's Association. This latest study provides great insight into how mentally rewarding spending time with the grandkids can be. (Not that we really needed an excuse to be with our loved ones.)
Please SHARE this amazing news with all the grandparents you know!
