Having grandchildren helps older Americans feel less isolated, according to findings from a recent poll. People who frequently spend time with their grandchildren reported better mental health and less isolation than people who did not have grandchildren or saw theirs less frequently. The findings from t he National Poll on Healthy Aging , published Tuesday, seem to support U.
S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek H.
Murthy's assertion that strong relationships combat loneliness . Last year, Murthy identified what he called an "epidemic of loneliness and isolation" in the United States and cited loneliness as a public health threat, because research has linked it to a greater risk of cardiovascular disease, dementia, stroke, depression, anxiety and premature death. "Our individual relationships are an untapped resource — a source of healing hiding in plain sight," Murthy wrote.
"They can help us live healthier, more productive, and more fulfilled lives." The nationwide poll, administered by the University of Michigan, surveyed nearly 3,500 people, ages 50 to 94, by phone and online. Of the people surveyed, 72% of those with grandchildren said they hardly ever felt isolated compared to 62% of those without grandchildren.
People without grandchildren were more likely to report fair or poor mental health compared to people with grandchildren, 13% to 9%, respectively. The poll also found 78% of people who saw their grandchildren at least nearly every day said they hardly ever felt isolat.