Retirement Concerns by Andy

Celebrating the special bond with grandchildren

• Andrew Barrett

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Grandparenting in the 2020s

Introduction

This briefing document consolidates information from four sources to provide a comprehensive overview of grandparenting in the 2020s. It covers the evolving role of grandparents, the benefits of grandparent-grandchild relationships, the challenges of distance, and resources available to grandparents and their families.

Source 1: "60 Best Grandparent Blogs and Websites in 2025"

  • Overview: This source provides a curated list of 60 grandparent-focused blogs and websites, offering a glimpse into the diversity of online content catering to this demographic. It also serves as a directory of influential voices and resources within the grandparenting community.
  • Key Themes & Ideas:
  • Diverse Content: The listed blogs cover a wide range of topics, from crafting and recipes to faith-based parenting, long-distance grandparenting, and support for grandparents raising grandchildren. This demonstrates the multifaceted nature of grandparenting in modern times.
  • Active Online Community: The presence of numerous blogs with substantial social media followers indicates a large, engaged community of grandparents seeking information, connection, and resources online. For instance, "This Grandma is Fun" has 70.4K Facebook followers, and "Grandparents Link" has 53.7K, demonstrating the popularity of online communities among this group.
  • Varied Approaches to Grandparenting: The blogs reflect a wide range of grandparenting styles, from the traditional "Grandma's cookie jar" to more modern and tech-savvy approaches. There is also "Head Rambles," described as the "rambling thoughts of an Irish Grandad."
  • Platform for Sharing Experiences: Many blogs serve as personal journals, with grandparents sharing their thoughts, challenges, and joys. For example, "Granny Sue's News and Reviews" is described as the online journal of a West Virginia storyteller.
  • Resource for Parents Too: Some blogs, like "Green Grandma," target young parents in addition to grandparents. This highlights the interconnectedness of family relationships and shared resource needs.
  • Focus on Specific Niches: Certain blogs, such as "Christian Grandparenting Network Blog" and "The Bristol Grandparents Support Group Blog", focus on specific communities or needs, highlighting that this is not a homogenous demographic.
  • Technological Fluency: The source highlights the integration of social media, and mentions the use of email for contact.
  • Marketing Tool: The inclusion of contact information and outreach details for the blogs themselves shows how some grandparents are seeing these sites as commercial or outreach opportunities. "Get access to 250k active Bloggers in 1500 niche categories. Get targeted media contact list in your niche at your fingertips so you can focus on running your campaign. Email us the type of bloggers you want to reach out for your marketing campaign at anuj@feedspot.com"
  • Key Quotes:
  • "Grandma Ideas vision of my site was to create a resource of ideas that grandmothers could turn to, that they could use. Ideas that were easy and inexpensive."
  • "Just as grandma's cookie jar should always be full of good things, this blog will be full of good ideas, information, activities and reviews of things to help grandma, and grandpa, mom and dad too."
  • "The Go-To Place for all things long distance grandparenting. Follow this feed and get instant access to fun, meaningful and simple ways you can stay connected across the miles."

Source 2: "National Grandparents Day Celebrates the Mutual Relationship Be

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Speaker 1:

Hey everyone and welcome to a deep dive all about grandparenting in 2025.

Speaker 2:

Yeah, it's definitely a topic that a lot of people are thinking about and talking about these days.

Speaker 1:

For sure, and especially timely with National Grandparents Day coming up on September 13th.

Speaker 2:

Absolutely A perfect time to kind of reflect on, you know, the role that grandparents play in our families and in society.

Speaker 1:

Absolutely so. We're diving into a whole bunch of articles and blog overviews to unpack all of this.

Speaker 2:

Yeah.

Speaker 1:

And one of the first things that jumped out at me was just this idea that the grandparent population is booming.

Speaker 2:

Oh yeah, it's exploding.

Speaker 1:

Yeah, we're going to have a ton of grandparents in the next.

Speaker 2:

You know, five, 10 years 20 percent of Americans by 2030 are going to be 65 or older.

Speaker 1:

Yeah, that's a huge number.

Speaker 2:

Yeah, it's a massive shift and you know we throw around these statistics like 96 percent of people over 65 are grandparents.

Speaker 1:

Yeah.

Speaker 2:

And you know, most have four or five grandkids.

Speaker 1:

Right.

Speaker 2:

And by 2030, almost all eight year olds will have a living great grandparent.

Speaker 1:

That's pretty amazing to think about, but it makes you wonder what does that actually mean, like on a practical level, for families and, you know, for society?

Speaker 2:

Well, you know, we often think about grandparents as the cookie bakers and the storytellers and the dispensers of wisdom.

Speaker 1:

Yeah.

Speaker 2:

But with longer lifespans and changing family dynamics, you know their role is becoming much more multifaceted.

Speaker 1:

Yeah, and one of the articles pointed out this idea of evolving roles, which I think is really fascinating, like, for example, the rise of grandfamilies.

Speaker 2:

Yeah.

Speaker 1:

Where grandparents are actually the primary caregivers for their grandchildren.

Speaker 2:

It's a huge trend and you know it's not always by choice. It's often driven by things like you know, substance abuse or incarceration of the parents.

Speaker 1:

Right.

Speaker 2:

Yeah, and it's a demanding role to step into unexpectedly.

Speaker 1:

Yeah, about 10 percent of grandparents live with their grandchildren.

Speaker 2:

Yeah, and it's a demanding role to step into unexpectedly. Yeah, about 10 percent of grandparents live with their grandchildren. Yeah and 5 percent are the primary caregivers. That's incredible. It is, and you can imagine the challenges that come with that?

Speaker 1:

Yeah, definitely, and we'll get into those challenges a bit more. But you know, even beyond those specific situations, the articles also talk about just the everyday challenges that grandparents face, like distance and busy schedules making it harder to connect.

Speaker 2:

Oh yeah, that's a common one. Over half of grandparents live over 200 miles from at least one grandchild.

Speaker 1:

Yeah, and everybody's busy these days, juggling work and their own lives.

Speaker 2:

Absolutely.

Speaker 1:

It's tough to make time for those regular visits. It is, and that's where technology comes in, as both a solution and a potential challenge. Yeah, I was just thinking about that too, because, on the one hand, we have all these amazing tools like Zoom and FaceTime that allow for virtual visits and you can read bedtime stories across the miles. But, as we were saying before, not all grandparents are tech savvy and some lack access to reliable Internet or devices.

Speaker 2:

Exactly, and that creates a digital divide. Yeah, it does when not everybody's benefiting equally from these advancements.

Speaker 1:

And even for the grandparents, who are comfortable with technology. I wonder if those virtual interactions can ever truly replace those in-person moments, you know, those shared experiences.

Speaker 2:

That's a really good point and, you know, one of the articles that we read highlighted this organization called Grand Camp Adventures.

Speaker 1:

Oh yeah.

Speaker 2:

And they really emphasize that the most meaningful connections come from simple play and shared experiences. Ok, not necessarily like you know extravagant trips or you know expensive gifts.

Speaker 1:

So like baking cookies together, going for a walk, reading a book aloud.

Speaker 2:

Exactly those are the activities that really create those lasting memories.

Speaker 1:

Yeah.

Speaker 2:

And that actually ties into another point that came up a lot, which is the importance of snail mail.

Speaker 1:

Oh yeah.

Speaker 2:

You know it might seem old fashioned in the digital age A little bit, but that tangible connection of a handwritten letter or a special photo is something that both grandparents and grandkids really cherish.

Speaker 1:

I can see that.

Speaker 2:

Yeah.

Speaker 1:

So it seems like it's all about finding that balance.

Speaker 2:

Yeah.

Speaker 1:

Between the tech-enabled connection and those in-person moments.

Speaker 2:

Absolutely Striking. That balance is key.

Speaker 1:

And then there's the bigger question of you know, what role do grandparents play in society as a whole, and how is that evolving?

Speaker 2:

Right. Well, we're definitely seeing a shift away from that traditional image of grandparents as simply retirees enjoying their golden years. Right, Many of them are still working, pursuing passions contributing to their communities.

Speaker 1:

Yeah, they have their own lives and priorities.

Speaker 2:

Exactly, and that adds another layer of complexity to these relationships, because both grandparents and parents need to be open about you know, expectations and boundaries For sure. To avoid resentment and create a harmonious dynamic.

Speaker 1:

Communication is key.

Speaker 2:

Always.

Speaker 1:

Especially as we see these non-traditional family structures becoming more common.

Speaker 2:

Absolutely. You know we're seeing more blended families, same-sex parents and other variations that challenge the traditional definition of what it means to be a grandparent.

Speaker 1:

So there's no one-size-fits-all approach to grandparenting anymore.

Speaker 2:

Not at all, and that diversity of experience is something that we're going to be exploring a lot more. As we get deeper into these sources, we'll look at how different grandparents are navigating these challenges, the resources that are available to them and what the future might hold for this evolving role.

Speaker 1:

Sounds like we have a lot to unpack.

Speaker 2:

We do.

Speaker 1:

But before we move on, I want to mention one specific resource that I came across. Okay, a website called wwwgrandparents-daycom. Oh that sounds interesting. Tell me more. Yeah, it's dedicated to National Grandparents Day and it has information about the history of the celebration, contests, events, oh, wow, all sorts of things that might be interesting to our listeners.

Speaker 2:

That's a great tip, you know. It highlights the fact that there's a whole online community out there specifically for grandparents.

Speaker 1:

Yeah.

Speaker 2:

Offering support, advice, a chance to connect with others who really get it.

Speaker 1:

It's like a virtual grandparent network.

Speaker 2:

Exactly.

Speaker 1:

And speaking of online communities, another article mentioned Feedspot's curated list of the best grandparent blogs and websites for 2025.

Speaker 2:

Oh, I'm always on the lookout for good resources. What's special about this list?

Speaker 1:

Well, it's ranked by relevance, social media following and freshness, so it's a great starting point for grandparents looking to connect online. Plus, it really highlights the diverse range of topics and perspectives within this community.

Speaker 2:

That's really helpful. It sounds like these online platforms can offer a valuable sense of connection and support, especially for grandparents who might be feeling isolated or facing unique challenges.

Speaker 1:

And as we delve deeper into those challenges, I think it's important to acknowledge the emotional toll that some grandparents experience particularly those who are raising their grandchildren.

Speaker 2:

You're right. We need to be sensitive to the added pressure they're under, dealing with legal complexities, financial strain and the potential trauma that their grandchildren might be carrying.

Speaker 1:

It's a testament to their strength and resilience.

Speaker 2:

It really is.

Speaker 1:

And it makes the need for support systems, both online and in their communities, even more critical.

Speaker 2:

Absolutely, and you know there are organizations like Generations United that are doing amazing work in advocating for grandfamilies and connecting them to those vital resources.

Speaker 1:

Their work is crucial in recognizing that these grandparents aren't just filling a void Right. They're playing a critical role in our society.

Speaker 2:

They are.

Speaker 1:

And they deserve all the support we can give them.

Speaker 2:

Well said, and it's heartwarming to see organizations like Generations United working tirelessly to ensure that these families have the resources they need to thrive.

Speaker 1:

Yeah.

Speaker 2:

You know, as we talk about these incredible individuals, though, it's important to remember that many grandparents are raising grandchildren who've experienced trauma or loss.

Speaker 1:

It's a heartbreaking reality.

Speaker 2:

Yeah, you know, these children may be dealing with the effects of parental substance abuse, incarceration, even death.

Speaker 1:

And their grandparents are stepping up to provide a loving and stable environment during a very difficult time.

Speaker 2:

It's a truly remarkable act of love and selflessness. You know, they're not only providing for their grandchildren's basic needs, but they're helping them heal and build resilience.

Speaker 1:

Yeah, it's a challenging but incredibly rewarding journey.

Speaker 2:

It is.

Speaker 1:

And it highlights the incredible strength and compassion that grandparents possess.

Speaker 2:

Absolutely.

Speaker 1:

But even beyond those extraordinary circumstances, it seems like grandparenting in 2025 is about finding balance amidst a rapidly changing world.

Speaker 2:

You've hit the nail on the head. It's about balancing technological advancements with the need for in-person connection, honoring individual needs and preferences while navigating evolving family dynamics and embracing the diversity of experiences that define grandparenting today.

Speaker 1:

And with that let's dive deeper into those specific experiences and explore what makes each grandparent-grandchild relationship so unique and special.

Speaker 2:

Let's do it. There's so many fascinating stories and insights waiting to be uncovered. It's amazing, when you really start looking at individual stories, how much technology is changing things.

Speaker 1:

Yeah, it's really a mixed bag, isn't it? But on one hand, you've got things like Facebook, where grandparents are connecting with their grandkids in ways they never could have imagined before.

Speaker 2:

All right sharing photos keeping up with their lives.

Speaker 1:

Yeah, and even joining those Facebook groups specifically for grandparents.

Speaker 2:

Right Finding support and advice from other grandparents.

Speaker 1:

Yeah, but then some sources are saying hold on a second. Is all this technology actually creating a barrier to real connection?

Speaker 2:

It's a valid concern. Right, are we replacing those face-to-face moments?

Speaker 1:

those spontaneous interactions with screens, exactly. And then you have the grandparents, who aren't as comfortable with technology Right.

Speaker 2:

That digital divide can be really isolating.

Speaker 1:

Yeah, and it's not just about having the devices and the internet, it's about feeling confident in using them.

Speaker 2:

Exactly.

Speaker 1:

One article is talking about digital literacy programs for seniors.

Speaker 2:

That's a great idea.

Speaker 1:

Not just showing them how to use a specific app, but really helping them navigate the online world.

Speaker 2:

Empowering them.

Speaker 1:

Exactly, and it's not just about connecting with grandkids either.

Speaker 2:

No, think about artificial intelligence.

Speaker 1:

Oh, wow.

Speaker 2:

The articles talk about AI being a game changer for grandparents in the future.

Speaker 1:

Really how.

Speaker 2:

Helping them stay organized, managing their health, even translating languages so they can talk to grandkids who speak different languages.

Speaker 1:

Oh, that's like having a personal assistant, right.

Speaker 2:

Exactly. But even with all this technology, I keep coming back to this question of what's the real legacy of grandparenting, you know?

Speaker 1:

That's a great question. I think about the tangible things. We pass down heirlooms, photo albums, recipes, yeah but the real treasures are the intangible things, the values, the beliefs, the stories, the love.

Speaker 2:

It's about shaping hearts and minds, not just giving gifts.

Speaker 1:

Exactly, and one powerful way to do that is through intergenerational storytelling. I love that Grandparents sharing their life experiences, their wisdom, their perspectives on the world.

Speaker 2:

It's not just entertaining, it's connecting across generations.

Speaker 1:

Right.

Speaker 2:

I love thinking about grandparents as the keepers of family history.

Speaker 1:

Yes.

Speaker 2:

Giving us that sense of where we come from, and I think that's especially important in today's world where everything feels so fast-paced and ever-changing.

Speaker 1:

Grandparents offer that sense of continuity, a connection to the past. Right. But we also have to acknowledge that family dynamics aren't always perfect. Right, there can be conflicts, strained relationships, even legal battles over visitation rights.

Speaker 2:

It's a difficult reality for many grandparents and it's important for them to know that they have rights and resources available.

Speaker 1:

But at the same time, they also have to respect the boundaries set by the parents.

Speaker 2:

Of course, supporting the parents in their role as primary caregivers is essential.

Speaker 1:

Yeah, it's not about undermining them or imposing your own values.

Speaker 2:

No, it's about being a positive influence, a source of love and support.

Speaker 1:

Communication is key, absolutely. And what about the role of community in supporting grandparents?

Speaker 2:

That's so important. The articles talk about community centers, senior centers, faith-based organizations becoming hubs for intergenerational activities.

Speaker 1:

Okay, so things like mentoring programs, tutoring arts and crafts.

Speaker 2:

Exactly Creating opportunities for young and old to connect and learn from each other.

Speaker 1:

It's about those organic interactions, those relationships that go beyond blood ties.

Speaker 2:

Right, and for grandparents raising their grandchildren, these community spaces can be a lifeline.

Speaker 1:

Yeah, offering resources, support groups, a sense of belonging.

Speaker 2:

Exactly, and I think this is where organizations like Generations United really shine.

Speaker 1:

Right, advocating for policies that support grandfamilies and promoting these intergenerational programs.

Speaker 2:

Yeah, their work is crucial in highlighting the impact these grandparent-grandchild bonds have on society as a whole.

Speaker 1:

It's not just about individual families. It's about building a more connected and compassionate world.

Speaker 2:

Exactly. And speaking of organizations promoting intergenerational connection, there's also the Legacy Project.

Speaker 1:

Oh yeah, I was just looking at their website. It's amazing.

Speaker 2:

Isn't it full of resources?

Speaker 1:

Yeah, practical tips, communication ideas, activity ideas, even inspiring stories about these relationships.

Speaker 2:

It reinforces the idea that even small acts of connection can make a big difference.

Speaker 1:

Like sharing a meal, listening to a story, simply being present.

Speaker 2:

Exactly those seemingly small gestures can have a lasting impact.

Speaker 1:

So, as we're exploring all these diverse experiences and this evolving landscape of grandparenting, yeah, I think there's so much we can learn from the grandparents themselves. I completely agree. I think we often underestimate their wisdom and insights.

Speaker 2:

Yeah, they've seen so much. They've witnessed societal shifts, technological advancements, cultural changes.

Speaker 1:

Right, their perspective is invaluable.

Speaker 2:

It's like they hold the map to navigating life.

Speaker 1:

And that's why I think intergenerational storytelling is so powerful.

Speaker 2:

Absolutely.

Speaker 1:

It's not just about preserving family history. It's about tapping into this wellspring of knowledge and experience.

Speaker 2:

It's about gaining wisdom, understanding a deeper connection to who we are.

Speaker 1:

Exactly, and in a world that often feels divided and disconnected, these intergenerational bonds offer a path toward greater understanding, empathy and unity.

Speaker 2:

It's a beautiful reminder that we're all part of this larger human story, a tapestry woven together by generations, past, present and future. Well said, and as we move toward the end of our deep dive, let's reflect on what this means for the future of grandparenting. Let's reflect on what this means for the future of grandparenting. What can we learn from these diverse experiences and how can we ensure that these vital relationships continue to thrive in a world that's constantly changing?

Speaker 1:

It's amazing to think about all the different ways that grandparenting is evolving. It really is. It's such a dynamic and multifaceted role. Yeah, and even with all the changes, there's still that core essence of the grandparent grandchild bond that remains so powerful.

Speaker 2:

Absolutely Unconditional love, the wisdom they share, the sense of belonging. It transcends time and culture.

Speaker 1:

It really does. But as we look to the future, how do we make sure this bond stays strong amidst all the changes happening in the world?

Speaker 2:

It's a big question, right how do we navigate all the technological advancements, the shifting family dynamics and still preserve the heart of what makes these relationships so special?

Speaker 1:

I think a big part of it is acknowledging that there's no one-size-fits-all approach to grandparenting anymore.

Speaker 2:

Exactly. We've seen how some grandparents are embracing technology wholeheartedly, connecting through video calls, social media, even AI-powered tools Right, connecting through video calls, social media, even AI-powered tools.

Speaker 1:

Right. And then you have others who prioritize those in-person moments, the shared experiences, the tangible connections.

Speaker 2:

And, of course, we can't forget the grandparents who are raising their grandchildren, taking on a whole different set of challenges and needing different kinds of support, absolutely.

Speaker 1:

We have to recognize and respect those differences, meet grandparents where they are and provide resources that are tailored to their individual needs and circumstances.

Speaker 2:

And that's where organizations like Generations United and the Legacy Project are doing such important work.

Speaker 1:

Yeah. Advocating for policies supporting grandfamilies, promoting intergenerational programs, offering a wealth of resources.

Speaker 2:

But ECO's beyond formal programs and organizations. It's about fostering a culture that values these intergenerational connections.

Speaker 1:

So creating those spaces where young and old can interact organically.

Speaker 2:

Exactly the community gardens, mentoring programs, intergenerational choirs, places where those chance encounters and shared experiences can flourish.

Speaker 1:

It's about weaving those connections into the fabric of our everyday lives, and I think it starts with simply acknowledging the incredible wisdom and experience that grandparents have.

Speaker 2:

Absolutely. They've lived through so much, seen the world change in remarkable ways.

Speaker 1:

Their stories, their perspectives, their insights are priceless, especially in a world that often feels so uncertain and chaotic.

Speaker 2:

And so listening to their stories isn't just a way to honor their past. It's a way to learn and grow in the present.

Speaker 1:

And it's also about sharing our own lives with them, keeping them engaged in the world around them.

Speaker 2:

It's a two-way street that exchanges stories, experiences, perspectives.

Speaker 1:

That's what keeps these relationships vibrant and meaningful.

Speaker 2:

And it ensures that the legacy of grandparenting continues to shape future generations.

Speaker 1:

It's really a beautiful thing when you think about it the values, the traditions, the love being passed down through these connections, woven into who we are.

Speaker 2:

It really is. And as we move forward, it's up to all of us to nurture these connections, make sure that the wisdom and love of grandparents continue to guide future generations.

Speaker 1:

So, as we wrap up this deep dive, we want to leave you with a challenge Reach out to the grandparents in your life.

Speaker 2:

Yes, listen to their stories, share your own day, celebrate that special bond you share.

Speaker 1:

Their love and wisdom are gifts that deserve to be cherished, not just on National Grandparents Day, but every single day.

Speaker 2:

And we want to thank you for joining us on this journey of exploration. We hope it's given you some new insights and inspired you to deepen those precious grandparent-grandchild connections in your own life.