The Fitness Journey I Never Expected

Our fourth Melbourne grandchild was born this week; welcome, June! We’ve gone from wondering if we would ever have grandchildren to suddenly having four under 2 years of age.

It’s amazing how different the role of grandmother feels compared to being a mother. All the overpowering, all-consuming love without any of the stress! It’s so worth waiting for 😅

I was walking down my street carrying, skipping and jumping with 22 month old Sophia, pictured above, when a woman sternly warned me to be careful not to hurt my back. I laughed, not at her, but at the idea that obviously at a certain perceived age you’re expected to be able to do some things and not other things, particularly physical activities.

Older Parents,Older Grandparents

The age of first-time parents is steadily increasing, currently ranging from 27 to 32 years. Over the past 15 years, the age of first-time grandparents has shifted from mid-50s to between 60-79 years.

I understood what the woman in the street meant. I see many grandparents in their early 60’s with their small grandchildren who look like there’s no way they could possibly pick them up, let alone skip down the street.

Keeping Up With the Grandkids

To truly embrace the joy of being a grandparent you need to be fit. It’s exhausting, fun and non-stop movement!! The heart-filled pure joy of being a parent and grandparent is enough evidence for me to stay well, fit and sharp but the very real health and longevity benefits are now well researched and evidenced.

Here’s some new research to inspire you just in case you need it! 😄

• Longevity: 37% lower mortality risk for caregiving grandparents over 20 years

• Better cognitive function: Higher cognitive scores with 100+ hours of grandchild care over two years, resulting in lower Alzheimer’s risk

• Greater emotional wellbeing: Both grandparents and grandchildren from emotional closeness.

• ️ Increased “feel-good” hormones:Spending time with grandchildren boosts dopamine and oxytocin levels, making both you and them happier!

So to all the Mothers and Grandmothers, Happy Mother’s Day!

Here’s to living younger, longer, better with our much loved and precious children and grandchildren 😍