Facts About Grandparents, I remember …

Times have changed, but they will never be forgotten. With nostalgia for the good old days when my family lived close to one another, I jotted down an important childhood memory of my grandparents. Why was it important to me? Because it showed and taught me how a family should interact.

Introduction to Grandparents

Grandparents play a vital role in the lives of their grandchildren, shaping family traditions, offering wisdom, and providing a sense of continuity across generations. In fact, the average age at which Americans become grandparents is just 48, meaning many grandparents are still active, engaged, and eager to be involved in their grandkids’ lives. Most grandparents report that being a grandparent is the single most important role they will ever have, and their influence can be seen in nearly every aspect of a child’s life—from sharing stories and values to offering a comforting presence during summer vacation or family gatherings.

With over 70 million grandparents in the United States, grandparents represent one third of the adult population—a powerful testament to their presence in our communities. Many grandparents are not only cherished family members but also primary caregivers, stepping in to provide stability and support when needed. Their financial support is substantial, as they contribute generously to their families and to the nation’s cash contributions, helping with everything from education expenses to special gifts and memorable experiences.

Grandparents Day, celebrated as a national holiday on the Sunday after Labor Day, is a special time to honor the important role grandparents play in our lives. It’s a reminder to pause and appreciate the love, wisdom, and guidance that grandparents offer, even as they face the challenges of aging. Whether it’s spending time with grandkids during summer, sharing life lessons, or simply being there to listen, grandparents enrich the lives of their families in countless ways.

In this article, we’ll explore some of the most interesting facts about grandparents—their demographics, behaviors, and the unique contributions they make to their families and communities. From their financial generosity to the special moments they create, grandparents truly are the heart of the family.

Celebrating Grandparents

Celebrating grandparents is a heartfelt tradition that brings families together to honor the wisdom, love, and memories that only grandparents can provide. Grandparents Day, recognized as a national holiday, is dedicated to acknowledging the special role grandparents play in shaping the lives of their grandchildren and the broader community. Most grandparents are not only the keepers of family stories and traditions, but also the guiding lights who pass down values and life lessons from one generation to the next.

Grandparents represent one third of the population, making their influence on family life truly remarkable. Whether it’s a summer vacation spent building sandcastles, a cozy afternoon sharing stories, or simply enjoying a meal together, grandparents love to spend time with their grandkids and create cherished memories that last a lifetime. These moments of connection are more than just fun—they are the threads that weave generations together, ensuring that family wisdom and traditions continue to flourish.

On Grandparents Day and throughout the year, families find meaningful ways to honor their elders, from heartfelt cards and phone calls to special gatherings and shared adventures. These celebrations are a reminder of the important role grandparents play in our lives, and the deep sense of gratitude we feel for their unwavering support and love. As we celebrate our grandparents, we also celebrate the enduring bonds that make families strong, resilient, and full of joy—across every summer, every season, and every generation.

Childhood Memories of Family

In Michigan City, Indiana, on Lake Michigan, there is a white-framed house with green shutters and a white picket fence. It is my grandmother and grandfather’s family beach home. I have so many happy memories of that house. I think of my grandmother’s laugh, seeing delicious fresh ears of corn simmering in the large pot on top of her stove. The hours spent building sandcastles on the water’s shore with my cousins in the summer. And waiting for my grandmother to come down to the beach with baskets of food for lunch.

Our family stayed together because we spent time together. My grandmother loved being a grandmother. She was the glue that held our family together.

Role of a Modern Grandmother

As a modern grandmother, I fear I won’t be able to follow in the footsteps of my own grandmother, the true Queen Bee. The role of family has shifted, and my grandchildren live long distances away. Compared to younger adults, today’s grandparents often represent a wider range of cultural backgrounds and perspectives, reflecting different attitudes and experiences across generations. I know that many of you are in the same boat. Our family floats here and there adrift, without an anchor. I dare say that many lives, young and old, would turn out differently with the opportunity for continuous close family bonding.

My Love-Hate Relationship with the Wright Brothers

Since becoming a grandmother, I have a love-hate relationship with the inventors of the airplane, Wilbur and Orville Wright. Their invention opened the window of the world and nourished my wanderlust as a worldly woman, but closed the most important window—family life. In past generations, the inability to travel easily ensured kids and grandkids stayed close to home.

It is painful not to be able to be the Queen Bee Grandmother, the on-site matriarch of my family.  I would give anything (almost) to be able to run over to their houses and take my grandchildren for a spontaneous burger and fries or shopping for a pair of Levi’s…all on the spur of the moment. A grandmother has so much to share with her grands! And grandchildren have so much to give back.

Characteristics of American Grandparents

American grandparents are a vibrant and diverse group, playing an essential role in the lives of their grandchildren and the broader community. With the average age of a grandparent hovering around 60, many are still actively involved in their careers, hobbies, and passions, all while embracing the joys of family life. Most grandparents agree that being a grandparent is the single most important role they will ever have, with two thirds reporting that nothing compares to the love and connection they share with their grandkids.

Demographically, grandparents represent one third of the adult population in the United States—a powerful testament to their presence and influence. Many grandparents are not just occasional visitors in their grandchild’s life; they are primary caregivers, with one fifth of American children living in a household with a grandparent. This means millions of grandparents are directly involved in raising the next generation, providing stability, wisdom, and unconditional love.

Of course, grandparents face unique challenges as they balance their own needs with those of their grandchildren. Yet, despite these hurdles, most grandparents report high levels of satisfaction and fulfillment from their relationships with their grandkids. The special role they play in their families is often celebrated, especially during national holidays like Grandparents Day, which falls on the Sunday after Labor Day in the fall. This seasonal timing is often marked by blooming flowers and family activities that symbolize the celebration of grandparents. On this day, families across the country come together to honor and recognize the invaluable contributions of grandparents.

Financial support is another area where American grandparents shine. They are a cornerstone of the nation’s cash contributions, providing significant financial assistance to nonprofits as well as to their adult children and grandchildren. Whether it’s helping with education expenses, summer vacation adventures, or thoughtful gifts, grandparents spend billions each year to enrich the lives of their loved ones.

In today’s digital world, more grandparents are using technology to stay connected with their grandkids than ever before. Over half of all grandparents report using social media to keep up with family news, share stories, and offer guidance—even from afar. This embrace of technology allows grandparents to remain a vital part of their grandchild’s life, bridging the gap between generations and ensuring that their wisdom and love are always within reach.

Here’s a fun fact: there are over 70 million grandparents in the United States, and the majority are women. Grandmothers, in particular, hold a special place in the family, often passing down cherished recipes, family stories, and traditions that span generations. Whether it’s a summer vacation spent together, a weekly phone call, or a simple moment of shared laughter, grandparents are making a lasting impact on the lives of their grandchildren every day.

As researchers continue to explore the importance of intergenerational relationships, one thing is clear: grandparents will always be a vital part of American families, shaping the lives of their grandkids and leaving a legacy of love, wisdom, and connection for generations to come.

Fun Facts About Grandparents

Grandparents are full of surprises! Here are some fun and interesting facts that highlight just how special they are in our lives:

1. The average age at which people become grandparents is just 48, meaning many are still active and deeply involved in their grandchildren’s lives.
2. Two thirds of grandparents provide financial support to their adult children and grandchildren, with many stepping up as primary caregivers when needed.
3. More grandparents than ever are making a difference through their financial support, contributing significantly to their families and to charitable causes across the country.
4. Grandparents are increasingly involved in their grandchildren’s education, often helping with homework, attending school events, and encouraging a love of learning.
5. One fifth of grandparents have tattoos, showing that today’s grandparents aren’t afraid to express themselves and have a little fun!
6. Grandparents face unique challenges, such as finding the right balance between spoiling their grandkids and setting healthy boundaries, but they approach these moments with wisdom and love.
7. Despite any challenges, most grandparents report that they love their role and find it deeply fulfilling and rewarding.
8. Grandparents are active members of their communities, with many volunteering, participating in local events, and making a positive impact beyond their own families.
9. The bond between a grandmother and her grandchild is especially cherished, with grandmothers often serving as mentors, role models, and sources of comfort and inspiration.
10. Grandfathers are also stepping into more active roles, enjoying quality time with their grandkids and sharing their skills, stories, and life lessons.

These fun facts about grandparents show just how important they are—not only to their own families, but to the entire community. Whether it’s through their wisdom, generosity, or the simple joy of spending time together, grandparents enrich our lives in countless ways. Their love, support, and involvement make every family stronger and every childhood brighter.

Facts About Grandparents: Sharing Your Story

My book, Stories for my Grandchild, is the perfect way to share your story and your legacy with your grandchildren. It is a genealogical treasure. The book is a keepsake journal of YOUR life, your values, and your family history. It is a place to pen your wisdom and dreams for your posterity. The book is a gift to your Grands as a lifetime heirloom.

And while my book is meant to be a forever keepsake, we must not wait to make a difference in the lives of our Grands. Every day, in so many ways, we must embrace the opportunity we have to make an impact on our Grands, to make an impression.

Now is the time to make memories like the ones I shared above.

On that note, I did some research and found these fun facts and interesting facts about being a grandparent. I found them equally surprising, thrilling, and satisfying.

 Lifestyle Facts About Grandparents

1. Grandparents love being grandparents! So what else is new?! 90% of us talk about our grandchildren to just about everyone! 72% think being a grandparent is the single most important role in their lives. (That’s one statistic that I just adore!)

2. We are younger than before. 60% of us are baby boomer grandparents! Or, as I like to say, “bloomers” not boomers.

New Fact: There are more grandmothers than grandfathers, as women generally outlive men. However, this ratio is expected to change over time, with more involved grandfathers taking active roles in their families.

3. Grandparents are active. 43% exercise and play sports. 28% volunteer on a regular basis. Older and older Americans are increasingly participating in sports, volunteering, and other activities.

4. A lot of grandparents are computer literate. 75% of us are online. 70% of us use search engines to find information. 63% shop online and 30% instant message! Even older Americans are embracing technology. Interested in getting more tech savvy? Read this story.

5. Grandparents work! 40% have full-time or part-time jobs, and 23% of us have our own businesses. Grandparents are also increasing their spending, especially on their grandchildren and family activities.

6. WE ARE MODERN and yet… 86% of us bake cookies for our family! Because rather than being “old-fashioned,” we believe in the value of passing on traditions.

Many families participate in a celebration to honor grandparents, especially on Grandparents Day. These celebrations often include special meals, gatherings, or activities that bring the family together and recognize the important role of grandparents.

7. Many of us are in relationships and sexually active. 33% of us have been married more than once. 38% of us have sex at least twice a week.

1. We’re not necessarily sitting on a porch somewhere in a rocking chair! Some of us get inked. Namely, 10% of grandparents surveyed have a tattoo. 17% have attended a rally, and 15% have demonstrated. 7% have used recreational drugs and 2% skydive.

New Fact: Multi-generational households that include grandparents are becoming more common. These households reflect changing family dynamics and the important role grandparents play in supporting their families.

Financial Facts About Grandparents

9. We have money! We control 75% of the wealth in America. Our average net worth is over $250,000. We spend $2 trillion every year on consumer goods and services. 55% of us have no mortgage.

10. We are generous. We make 45% of the nation’s cash contributions to nonprofits, representing a significant portion of the nation’s cash contributions overall. Kudos!

11. Many grandparents support their adult children and grandchildren financially. We spend $52 billion every year on our grandchildren! Our spending continues to grow, reflecting a trend of increased financial support and generosity. We spend $32 billion on education. 62% of us provided financial support to our adult children and grandchildren in the last year. 70% on cash for day-to-day expenses, 40% on housing (mortgage or rent), 23% on daycare, and 21% on education.

12. We enjoy life and have fun! We spend 100 billion on entertainment and 77 billion each year on travel.

There is growing interest from researchers and the Census Bureau in households headed by grandparents, due to their significant economic impact.

The Most Important Fact About Grandparents

13. WE LOVE TO SPEND TIME WITH OUR GRANDCHILDREN

• 60% of us live near our grandchildren.
• 46% wish they could live even closer.
• 70% see their grandchildren at least once a week.
• 66% travel with their grandchildren.
• 81% have their grandkids for part or all of their summer vacation.
• 72% of us take care of our grandchildren on a regular basis.
• 13% are primary caregivers.
• 

Take a Bow, Darling!

Many years have passed since I was that young child munching on my grandmother’s delicious sweet summer corn in her charming beach home. I am now a grandmother myself. And while the dynamic of family is different, in many ways, the role of the grandmother has not changed … we continue bestowing love and values to our Grands.

Celebrations like Grandparents Day remind us to honor and show respect for our elders, recognizing the important role they play in our families and traditions.

These days, I stay in touch with my grandchildren by text messaging, short videos, our home phone, and cells. And of course, Facetime! We visit. They visit. Even so it is not the same as having consistent in-person interactions. Some children are raised by their grandparents, making the bond between generations even more significant in multi-generational families. The relationship between parents and grandparents can also shape how often we see our grandchildren, as parents’ decisions often impact our connection and involvement. We can be a Queen Bee grandmother from afar and do our best. Hopefully, we will leave our grandchildren much in their heads!

To sum it up, we are a very special group of women. Take a bow, Darling!

Which of these facts about grandparents surprised you the most?

Ready to share your unique story with your grandchildren? Grab your copy of Stories for my Grandchild!

Statistics can be found from these sources:

https://www.pewresearch.org/short-reads/2015/09/13/5-facts-about-american-grandparents/

https://grandkidsmatter.org/hot-topics/grandchildren/what-a-grandparents-unconditional-love-does/

https://www.mcmasteroptimalaging.org/blog/detail/blog/2021/11/17/emotional-closeness-between-grandparents-and-grandchildren