grandparents

Grandparents are the parents of a person’s parent. They may provide care, guidance, and emotional support, and can be important mentors in a child’s life. The relationship with a grandchild often develops after birth and can grow through shared activities, storytelling, and participation in family traditions. In many families, grandparents serve as a link between generations by passing down values, language, and history.

Across cultures, the status and duties of grandparents vary. In some traditions they are central to daily life, frequently living in multigenerational households and helping with child care and education. In other settings they may have a more advisory role or live independently. Attitudes toward aging and elder care shape how communities support and value their older members.

Demographic and social trends influence contemporary grandparenting. Longer life expectancy means many people spend several decades in retirement; mobility, work, and geographic distance can affect contact. Technology enables communication across distance, while some families depend on grandparents for day‑to‑day caregiving or financial and practical support. Grandparents also transmit culture, family history, and traditions to new generations.

Grandparenting shapes the development and well‑being of children, influencing language, values, and a sense of belonging. Intergenerational relationships can provide emotional resilience and social capital, though caregiving demands and health challenges may arise. Communities and policymakers address aging by supporting families with services, respite care, and programs that promote healthy aging and family connection.