Older people as grandparents: how public policy needs to broaden its view of older people and the role they play within families

Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to provide a new perspective on the importance of grandparenting relationships and to highlight the continuing importance of intergenerational exchange across the life course. Design/methodology/approach - The paper draws on research from diverse fields including child welfare, gerontology and demography and journalistic sources, presenting an evidenced argument of the importance of grandparenting in contemporary families. Findings - The paper argues that the role of grandparents in family life is becoming more important as a result of demographic changes, and that grandparents offer a huge resource to families. Older people generally find their role as grandparents rewarding and that this contributes to wellbeing and reduced risk of loneliness. Originality/value - The paper provides a new perspective on the role of older people as grandparents.