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Looking after grandchildren on a regular basis could significantly lower your risk of dementia, say scientists

Looking after grandchildren on a regular basis could significantly lower your risk of dementia, say scientists

Scottish Sun10-07-2025
Plus, other lifestyle changes to make to reduce your dementia risk
MIND MATTERS Looking after grandchildren on a regular basis could significantly lower your risk of dementia, say scientists
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GRANDPARENTS who care for their grandchildren on a frequent basis could be at lower risk of developing dementia, say researchers.
The findings add to a growing body of research that suggests practical and social engagement in older age boosts cognitive health.
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Grandparents who frequently look after their grandchildren have been found to be at lesser risk of dementia
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While there's no guaranteed way to prevent dementia, certain lifestyle changes can significantly reduce your risk.
A new study, published in Jama Network Open, found grandparents who cared for their grandchildren on a frequent but noncustodial basis had a statically significant lower risk of developing dementia, when compared to those who didn't engage in such roles.
Scientists also noted grandparents who were caregiving were more likely to have a mobile phone, which kept them more connected and also helped lower the risk.
The study analysed the experiences of more than 10,000 older adults in China and tracked cognitive outcomes in relation to their caregiving activities.
In China, roughly 17 million people were living with dementia in 2019, according to a report published in JAMA Neurology in February 2020.
"Dementia is a pressing public health concern, with a substantial burden in China, which accounts for nearly 25 per cent of worldwide cases and great socioeconomic costs," the authors wrote.
The findings of the new study support previous research suggesting staying socially active and engaged can help preserve brain health, particularly in elderly adults.
"The protective association of nonintensive caregiving with dementia odds supports the use-it-or-lose-it hypothesis, which posits that engaging in mentally and socially stimulating activities—such as interacting with grandchildren—can preserve cognitive reserves and delay cognitive decline," the researchers concluded.
But the study did caution more intense caregiving duties could have a negative impact.
"These benefits, however, appear to have a threshold, as intensive caregiving, often accompanied by heightened stress and caregiving burden, was not associated with reduced dementia odds," the authors warned.
Five simple tests that could indicate dementia
Social isolation can lead to an increased risk of developing dementia, says the Alzheimer's Society.
This is related to whether a person lives alone, and whether they see friends and family regularly or engage in social or community activities.
As well as staying in touch with loved ones, finding activities or groups that align with your interests, such as book clubs, walking groups, or sports teams, can help maintain social connections.
Embracing new experiences, such as learning new skills or taking up new hobbies can also help.
And finding opportunities to connect, such as being open to meeting new people and forming new connections, may also be beneficial.
Alongside staying socially connected, experts recommend the following lifestyle changes to stave off dementia...
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