‘Keeping me sharp”: Self-perceived effects of grandparenthood on cognition: An exploratory thematic analysis

Abstract Objectives The experience of grandparenthood holds the potential for novel and engaging social interactions and activities, which may protect against cognitive decline. The present study outlines how individuals believe grandparenthood has impacted their cognitive abilities in late life. Methods We asked 127 grandparents (87 grandmothers and 40 grandfathers) how they thought grandparenthood had impacted their mental ability (memory, concentration, and cognitive ability). An exploratory thematic analysis utilizing a codebook approach was conducted on the participant responses. Results Analysis revealed four major themes among the responses: “grandparenthood as a continuous experience that promotes healthy cognitive functioning”, “shifting perspectives”, “limited interaction”, and “the negative impacts of grandparenthood.” Discussion A majority of grandparents expressed the belief that interacting with their grandchildren is beneficial to their cognition. However, some participants qualified grandparenthood as a stressful experience that has negatively impacted their cognitive health. These findings support previous literature showing both cognitive benefits associated with grandparental caregiving and negative cognitive outcomes that may result from the stress of caregiving.