This month, we celebrated Grandparent’s Day on September 8th. While that time has passed, we wanted to expand the celebration of our elderly loved ones to recognize their impact and contributions. Here at the Cottages, we have prepared some ideas to help you find ways to appreciate your grandparents and other elderly loved ones in your life in meaningful ways.
What is Grandparent’s Day?
Grandparents Day is a national holiday dedicated to honoring and appreciating our elders. It is a time for people to express their love and gratitude toward their grandparents for the guidance, wisdom, and love they provide. In the United States, Grandparents Day occurs on the first Sunday after Labor Day, which usually falls in early September.
Marian McQuade and Jacob Reingold established the holiday to encourage families to visit and connect with their elderly relatives and to increase awareness of the role grandparents play in the lives of younger generations. President Jimmy Carter officially recognized Grandparent’s Day as a national holiday in the U.S. in 1978.
The Positive Influence of Grandparents
Because of their position in the family, grandparents have the potential to make an impact for good. With advanced technology such as e-mail, messaging, video chat, and social media, grandparents can be increasingly involved in the lives of their loved ones in ways that otherwise would not have been possible due to distance.
Rachel Dunifon of Cornell University states that multiple studies have shown incredible effects due to the positive influence and involvement of grandparents in the lives of their families. Some of those effects are below:
- Decreased parental stress
- Parental emotional health due to increased support and advice
- Lower levels of depression in grandchildren
- Academic, personal, and social competence in grandchildren
- Increased self-confidence in children and grandchildren
Ways You Can Celebrate Your Grandparents
Everyone’s situation is different, and grandparents are not always nearby, but there are a variety of ways that you can celebrate the impact of your grandparents regardless of distance. Whether you spend time with your grandparents frequently or only see them on occasion, the following list provides some ways you can share your appreciation and build your connection with them:
Deliver or make a favorite treat – Take the time to prepare a favorite treat (maybe a family recipe) and surprise your loved one by delivering it to them. If your grandparent loves to bake or be in the kitchen, set aside some time to make the treat together and enjoy each other’s company.
Engage in a favorite hobby – Do your grandparents love to paint, crochet, knit, carve wood, explore the outdoors, go shopping, or play games? Plan an activity with them that embraces whatever their interests and talents are.
Write a hand-written letter of appreciation – While messaging and e-mail can be great ways to communicate in real-time, there isn’t anything quite like a hand-written letter. When it arrives, it will be a pleasant surprise that will provide them with a priceless keepsake they can turn to and read at any time.
Listen to their stories – Whether you are visiting them in person or over video/audio call, take time to listen to their stories and experiences. You may be surprised to discover things you never knew about them before that will deepen your appreciation and expand your view. Your grandparents have lived across multiple generations and have wells of untapped wisdom just waiting to be discovered.
Conclusion
Depending on your situation and time, there is always a way to celebrate your grandparents’ influence. Whether through a heartfelt letter, a shared hobby, or simply spending time together, every gesture counts. Remember that your bond with your grandparents is a treasure that enriches their lives and yours.
As we reflect on their impact on our lives, let’s strive to honor them throughout the year. Create lasting memories, engage in meaningful conversations, and express gratitude for the love your grandparents share. Through these connections, generations can come together, fostering understanding and appreciation in our families. So, go ahead and celebrate your grandparents today and every day; they truly deserve it!
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We welcome the opportunity to speak with you about careers at The Cottages and the care that our residents receive at our Idaho locations. We are experts in assisted living, memory care, respite, adult day care, and have been serving seniors for over 20 years. Our small home-like senior living homes and specially-trained team members offer an atmosphere that promotes the well-being of your loved one.
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