Mahaska Health Partnership Shares Benefits of Grandparents
Mahaska Health Partnership
MAHASKA COUNTY – Do your children spend quality time with their grandparents? Not only are grandparents a welcome helping hand when raising children, their relationship with your child can benefit their health too.
Research has shown that keeping aging parents and grandparents in or near your home benefits all ages; adding up to six years of life expectancy.
“Grandparents who play a key role as caregivers have a unique opportunity to influence the lives of their grandchildren,” MHP Psychiatrist Eric Boyum, MD, explained. “They can also offer affordable childcare and help take some of the burden off parents who are trying to provide for their family.”
For those children who are in high risk situations, such as poverty or high-stress environments, a grandparent can be a confidant and safe place to go. “When a child is going through something stressful or traumatic, it may be hard for them to turn to a parent,” Dr. Boyum shared. “Grandparents can be a safe and trustworthy source of advice for children.”
Along with emotional support for the child, a grandparent can benefit from spending time with their grandchildren. “No matter what our age, people can affect our personalities and outlook on life,” Dr. Boyum said. “By spending time with children, a grandparent may be able to have a clearer purpose and even avoid depression.”
Another benefit of a child spending time with their grandparent is its effect on development and learning skills. “Grandparents often have more time to spend with their grandchildren, so they can share stories about the family and help the child realize where they come from. They also can spend more time doing activities such as reading, writing and playing; which all contribute to a child’s cognitive skills.”
One of the best ways to ensure your child gets adequate time with their grandparents is sticking to a regular schedule. “Whether it’s weekly phone or internet chats or visits, try to allow your child to regular spend time with their grandparents,” Dr. Boyum encouraged. “Letting them work at a hobby such as knitting, cooking or woodworking can strengthen their bond. This relationship not only helps your child, but your parents too, so don’t let the busy schedule of everyday life get in the way of what’s most important; family!”
Psychiatrist Dr. Eric Boyum offers mental health services to people of all ages through MHP’s Behavioral Health Services, as well as Inpatient Geriatric Psychiatry. He treats patients of all ages but has a special interest in working with children and adolescents. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Boyum, call 641.672.3159.
Mahaska Health Partnership, located in Oskaloosa, is a non-profit health system accredited by the Joint Commission. It is guided by its mission to provide exceptional customer service and health improvement, linking the science of medicine with the humanity of compassionate care. For more information about how Mahaska Health Partnership is making healthcare personal, visit mahaskahealth.org.
