Scottsdale Grandparents: Staying Active for Health and Longevity

Every grandparent knows that their grandchildren are a great source of joy and comfort, bringing hugs and smiles and laughter into their lives. But you may not know that your grandkids can also help you to live a longer, stronger, and healthier life. Unlike our ancestors before us, when we age into our retirement years, we often find ourselves relaxing and slowing down. Generations past did not have that same luxury, as they had to continue with the necessary work of helping the family unit to survive. And while their life spans were, on average, shorter because they lacked modern medicine, they were stronger because exercise adds to longevity.

While it’s necessary for grandkids to spend at least some quiet time with you, doing things such as reading or playing board games, getting up and getting moving with them is an excellent idea. There are many activities that will get you out and about and keep you exercising and healthy, that are also fun and low impact to do with your grandkids.

For instance, you could enlist the aid of your grandchildren in helping you to tend and maintain your garden. Not only will you be outside walking and using your muscles for various gardening tasks, but you’ll be also forging a bond with your grandchildren and giving them lasting and positive memories. You could also simply go on walks with them. Strolling around the neighborhood or through a park together gives ample opportunity to talk with each other and start building a stronger bond.