Is the average age of grandparents changing?

 

What does this mean for the future? 

 

Does Your Age Impact Your Role as a Granny?

When I became a young parent at 19, I didn’t think much about the future. If the maths worked out, I was destined to be a younger grandparent. 

How did that work out for me? 

At 19, I was just winging it, too naive and too young, with that fresh-faced look that screamed, "I have no clue!" My baby skills were non-existent, but thanks to my mum and dad sister and brother and other family and good friends, I muddled through. For about four years, I was a single parent until I met the man who changed everything. Not a fairy tale I can tell you, but it brought new locations, lifelong friends, and opportunities. Eventually, I met a kind, loving man who became my daughter’s father a good dad and granddad.

Back in the day, most of my friends were in their early 20s when they had kids, meaning Generation X would be younger grandparents. 

But as time goes on, women are having children later. So, what does this mean for the future of grandparenting?

Let's Break It Down?

The ever-changing landscape of family Dynamics

As people become grandparents at older ages, the generational gap widens. This might mean older grandparents have loads of wisdom to share, but it might also mean they have a few more aches and pains. 

Free childcare? Not so fast! I would say that the older you get the less likely it will be for you to sustain the impact and energy those little people bring to a day at granny day care.  As a relatively young grandparent It’s not easy and speaking to others who are older, they are will say that they struggle. 

 

Money makes the world go round?

Older grandparents might be nearing retirement, altering their ability to provide financial support and time for grandkids. Middle generations might have to support both kids and aging parents. So, Generation ???, start saving now for those times when Mama needs you!

Retirement and the dilemma?

I have spoken to a number of people who have dreamed of the day they retire and sailing off into the sunset and then they have grandchildren!! Changing the landscape, less sailing more pushing buggies! 

The dilemma one grandparent still wants to sail the other wants to be around the grandkids this can cause conflict and resentment, Take heed!

Live long and prosper?

Advances in healthcare mean older grandparents might live longer and stay active in their grandchildren’s lives. This longevity could be great for passing down family traditions and values. And hey, who doesn’t love a good old-fashioned story from Granny?

Planning a family versus Career Choices?

Having kids later affects when you become a grandparent. Parents might prioritize their careers before starting a family. This isn’t a bad thing—just a different way to balance life.

Cultural Shifts and how it looks for the future?

Changes in the age of grandparents reflect broader societal trends, like increased life expectancy and shifts in reproductive patterns. Understanding these trends can help policymakers adapt to the needs of an aging population.  Can we start letting those policy makers know this now?  Will they listen?  Can they even hear? Do they even care?

Now, this might seem heavy and a bit "blah blah blah," but we need to consider the future. As long as there are babies, there will be mums, and this means grannies too.  But if we are older when we become grannies what does this mean for the future generations?

I know we have to embrace the wisdom, the wrinkles, and the wonderful chaos that every generation brings to the table but would be really interested in your thoughts?