Most seniors enjoy spending time with their grandchildren. It’s also safe to assume most people strive to live long, productive lives. Now there’s research suggesting grandchildren could play a role in achieving this goal, and the proof may be in the genes.
Later-Life Purpose
Grandparents are often respected members of their family units because of their ability to provide wisdom and nurture younger relatives. Researchers have found gene variants that lower the risk of common health issues often associated with old age, including diabetes and heart disease. Such genetic protection may exist to keep humans living longer so they can provide valuable contributions to future generations.
Maintaining a sense of purpose is just one of the many ways older adults can lead healthy lives. Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional elderly home care. Home Care Assistance is here to help your loved one accomplish daily tasks, prevent illness, and focus on living a healthier and more fulfilling life.
Selective Genetics in Humans
The genes scientists have identified aren’t unique to humans. However, the protective trait is exclusive to humans. It’s possible the process of evolution has allowed this trait to remain in humans to help people survive long enough to play a vital role in the care of their grandchildren.
Another way to increase your loved one’s longevity is to hire a home caregiver. If your aging loved one needs help managing everyday tasks or encouragement to adopt healthier lifestyle choices, turn to Home Care Assistance, a leading provider of homecare. Anchorage Home Care Assistance provides professional in-home caregivers around the clock to help seniors live longer, happier, and healthier lives.
The Hunter-Gatherer Connection
A study in the ’90s applied the grandparent theory to the classic hunter-gatherer concept. The theory suggests grandparents once helped the family search for food to ensure their grandchildren received the proper nourishment to foster healthy development and growth. This assistance from the grandparents allowed the mothers to focus on maintaining the species. Researchers note evolutionary variations don’t always have an obvious purpose, and the genetic adaptation may serve an entirely different function altogether.
There are exceptions to the theory, most notably the genetic predisposition for some seniors to develop conditions like Alzheimer’s, which can limit their ability to care for grandchildren. Regardless of the validity of the genetic link, there’s no denying that spending time with grandchildren can be a positive and important experience for grandparents.
Everyday tasks can grow more challenging with age, making it harder or more tiring to spend time with little ones. If your elderly loved one needs Anchorage live-in care, turn to Home Care Assistance. We offer a program called the Balanced Care Method, which encourages seniors to focus on eating nutritious foods, exercising on a regular basis, maintaining strong social ties, and other lifestyle factors known to increase longevity. To learn about our high-quality in-home care options, give us a call at (907) 770-0907 today.