11 Priceless Lessons Learned From Our Grandparents

Happy family eating lunch together at home
Happy family eating lunch together at home

Exploring an unknown space, eating a different style of food, and hearing unfamiliar stories…

Time spent with grandparents is an entirely different experience than with your parents. 

Did you ever have the opportunity to spend time with your grandparents? 

Or maybe you’ve experienced the opposite—time with your grandchildren. 

Either way, the interaction between you and your grandparents (or grandkids) is a unique opportunity to share intergenerational perspectives. 

Sure, while a 9-year-old might be able to show her grandmother how to use an iPad, the lessons that a (patient) grandparent can offer add unlimited value to a young mind…

Let’s look at some lessons you can learn from our grandparents. 

Grandparents’ experience and wisdom can be a treasure trove gleaned from a lifetime of unique experiences. 

Here are 11 lessons you can learn from them:

1. Resilience in Adversity

Healthy man flexing

Grandparents often faced wars, recessions, and personal trials, demonstrating a remarkable ability to persevere. Their resilience teaches us the importance of enduring and overcoming hardships, showcasing that strength is not just physical but also emotional and mental.

2. The Value of Family

Family celebration or a garden party outside in the backyard.

No technology can replace the warmth of family gatherings or the support of loved ones. Grandparents show how deep roots and strong bonds are crucial for thriving, emphasizing that the family can be a constant source of love and support in a world full of fleeting connections.

3. Financial Prudence

Portrait of beautiful senior woman in a shopping center

In an era of instant gratification, grandparents’ thrifty ways and wisdom on financial stewardship remind us of the importance of saving for the future. Their frugal habits and stories of economic resilience can inspire a more mindful approach to spending and investing.

4. Patience Is a Virtue

older couple at the beach

In today’s fast-paced world, grandparents exemplify patience, reminding everyone of the value of taking time to make decisions and appreciate the moment. This patience, honed over lifetimes, teaches us that some of the best things in life come to those who wait.

5. Simplicity Brings Joy

Aged Woman Reading Morning Newspaper And Drinking Coffee In Kitchen, Looking At Camera And Smiling

Grandparents find happiness in life’s simple pleasures, teaching that contentment doesn’t require complexity or extravagance. Their joy in the mundane—like a shared meal or a story told under the stars—reminds us that happiness often lies in simplicity.

6. Mastering Practical Skills

Happy senior woman taking care of flowers outdoors in garden, watering with can.

From gardening to knitting, grandparents’ hobbies and skills are lessons in self-reliance and creativity. These activities not only provide personal satisfaction but also equip us with the tools to contribute uniquely to our communities.

7. Understanding Our Roots

A senior pensioner couple hiking in nature, holding hands.

Grandparents connect people to their history and heritage through stories and traditions, offering a sense of identity and belonging. This connection enriches our understanding of ourselves and our place in the world, grounding us as we navigate the future.

8. Wisdom Over Knowledge

grandfather and grandson talking outdoors

Beyond book learning, grandparents impart life lessons on love, loss, and life’s mysteries, guiding personal journeys. Their wisdom, distilled from years of experience, offers a compass in times of moral and emotional turmoil.

9. Never Stop Learning

Happy Asian senior couple elderly man playing guitar while his wife singing together outdoors at home, Activity family health care, Enjoying lifestyle during retirement life having fun of senior older

Their curiosity and adaptability show that it’s never too late to learn something new or adapt to changes. This lifelong commitment to growth encourages us to remain open-minded and agile, regardless of our age.

10. Leave a Legacy

older couple looking out and embracing each other

Grandparents inspire consideration of the mark one wants to leave on the world and how to contribute to a lasting legacy. Their lives and stories encourage us to think beyond our lifespan, pondering how our actions and choices impact future generations.

11. Health is Wealth

Cheerful active senior couple playing basketball on the urban basketball street court. Happy living after 60. S3niorLife

The longevity and vitality of many grandparents underscore the adage that health is indeed wealth. Their routines and attitudes towards health—encompassing physical, mental, and emotional well-being—teach us to cherish and prioritize our health as the foundation for a fulfilling life.

Speaking of health, taking care of one’s body is vital to embrace these lessons and enjoy life fully.

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As grandparents guide you toward health and happiness, Dynamic Nerve aims to support your journey toward a vibrant, active life.* In honoring the wisdom passed down through generations, it is key to ensure steps are taken to protect and nourish the body.

Dynamic Nerve supplement with a background of someone walking

Caring for Yourself While Caring for a Loved One

Young asian woman taking care elderly woman patient careful on wheelchair. Woman caring senior woman on wheelchair at nursing home.
Young asian woman taking care elderly woman patient careful on wheelchair. Woman caring senior woman on wheelchair at nursing home.

November is National Family Caregivers Month, a time to honor and appreciate caregivers, acknowledge their challenges, celebrate their triumphs, and emphasize the importance of self-care as caregivers.

Reflecting on my caregiving experience, I’m reminded of the invaluable lessons I’ve learned. My father’s journey was intertwined with mine, teaching me profound lessons about love, patience, and resilience. Each day presented a new challenge, but it also offered an opportunity for growth and understanding.

If you’re considering stepping into the shoes of a caregiver or already navigating this path, the expert advice and personal insights below may help guide you on your journey.

The Incredible Importance of Self-Care

Satisfied adult woman breathing fresh air holding a coffee cup standing outdoors in the park

Caring for my 87-year-old father shaped my perspective on caregiving. It’s important to highlight that my dad had dementia, a condition marked by memory loss and other cognitive impairments. This condition often led to sundowning episodes, where his symptoms worsened in the late afternoon and early evening, turning our days into a rollercoaster ride of emotional ups and downs that took a significant toll, both physically and emotionally.

A simple yet profound truth is that “you can’t pour from an empty cup.” I’ve come to appreciate this adage more and more as it underscores the vital importance of self-care. It reminds us that caring for yourself is as important as caring for your loved one. Another important truth is that you must remember to be first in your own life, even though it’s often easy to put your loved one’s needs before yours.

As you navigate or continue your caregiving journey, remember these truths. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, sufficient sleep, and making time for activities you enjoy are essential ingredients in the self-care recipe.

And as you embark on or continue your caregiving journey, remember that you’re not alone. It’s a journey best traveled with a helping hand and a generous dose of self-care to ensure you and your loved one receive the care and attention you need and deserve.


Stay Connected, Isolation Isn’t the Answer

elderly friends laughing and smiling together

The responsibility of caring for a loved one may lead you to retreat from social interactions. However, isolation can lead to feelings of loneliness and depression, making the caregiving journey even more challenging.

Remember, maintaining your social connections isn’t selfish; it’s a critical aspect of self-care. Keeping in touch with friends and maintaining a support network can provide emotional relief and a sense of normalcy.

Seek Support

Man and woman holding hands closeup

Don’t hesitate to seek help from friends, family, or support groups. It’s crucial to understand that it’s not a journey to be undertaken alone. Sharing your experiences with others in similar situations can provide emotional relief and practical advice. Remember, it’s okay to ask for help.

Educating Yourself

 male doctor in white medical uniform talk discuss results or symptoms with female patient, man GP or physician consult woman client give recommendation at meeting in hospital

Knowledge is power. The more you understand your loved one’s condition, the better you’ll be able to handle challenges. Attend workshops, webinars, or consult professionals to broaden your knowledge.

Set Boundaries

Excited happy senior woman backpacker tourist walking in summer forest road outdoors at sunset time. Old slim lady traveling with photo camera

It’s crucial to establish personal boundaries to prevent burnout. This might mean scheduling regular breaks, delegating tasks, or setting aside time for relaxation and hobbies.

Know Your Limitations and Plan for the Future

Planner plan Schedule Calendar and reminder agenda, work online at home. Women hand planning daily appointment and write business trip in diary at office desk. 2023 Calendar reminder event concept.

As caregiving responsibilities often evolve, it becomes crucial to have a well-thought-out plan to address potential changes in your loved one’s health or living situation. This foresight can significantly alleviate stress and ensure the best care for your family member.

In my journey, there came a poignant moment when I realized that my father’s needs had exceeded my capacity. I can vividly recall the day when my father’s sundowning episode escalated to the point where he became combative, unsettling my children. It was at this turning point that I recognized the necessity of alternative care.

Since my father was a Veteran, I had proactively arranged financial support, anticipating the professional care he would eventually require. This foresight led us to choose an assisted living facility with a specialized memory care center. Not only did this decision ensure my father received the expert care he needed, but it also allowed me to concentrate on preserving my well-being and that of my family.

Planning and having the support systems in place proved to be a lifeline during this challenging phase of our caregiving journey.

Navigating Care for Elderly Parents with Limited Financial Resources

woman hand putting money coin into piggy for saving money wealth and financial concept.

For many families, the decision to care for loved ones at home stems from financial necessity. Often, our parents lack the resources required for assisted living or specialized care facilities. In such circumstances, it becomes imperative to explore the available avenues of support.

The Veterans Administration (VA) is a significant source of assistance, extending support to eligible veterans and their spouses. Through programs like Aid and Attendance, the VA provides financial aid to help cover the costs associated with home care or assisted living, easing the financial burden.

Additionally, Medicare plays a role in supporting healthcare services; however, it’s equally essential to understand the coverage’s limitations and associated co-pays. To further broaden the scope, Medicaid, a joint federal and state program, offers healthcare coverage to low-income individuals, including seniors, bridging the gap for those with limited financial resources.

Drawing from personal experience, I emphasize the crucial nature of early planning and foresight. Establishing the necessary provisions for your parent’s future needs can be time-consuming, ranging from a few months to a year.

Seeking guidance from social workers and elder care specialists proves invaluable in navigating these intricate programs, ensuring that despite financial constraints, your elderly parent receives the care they need.

You Are Appreciated

group of people making a heart shape with their hands

If you’re considering becoming a caregiver, remember that while the journey is challenging, it’s also deeply rewarding. Your sacrifice won’t go unnoticed; you’re making a profound difference in someone’s life. If you’re already on this journey, your dedication is immensely appreciated.

Although some days may feel daunting, remember the joy and fulfillment of caregiving. You are not alone on this journey, and the rewards—though they may sometimes seem elusive—are truly priceless.

The Stress Factor

Stonehenge Health Dynamic Mushrooms

If you’re a caregiver, you’re likely dealing with your fair share of stress. Know that natural options may help your body better manage it more effectively.

Functional mushrooms like Reishi, Maitake, and Lion’s Mane have gained popularity as adaptogens, primarily due to their ability to support the body’s stress response system. They contain unique compounds, such as beta-glucans and polysaccharides, which have been shown to promote healthy immune function. Lion’s Mane boasts hericenones and erinacines, known for supporting cognitive function.

To make things even more convenient, you can get your daily dose of adaptogens through supplement blends, saving you the trouble of hunting down individual ingredients.

Stonehenge Health Dynamic Mushrooms brings together the benefits of the five most popular functional mushrooms – Lion’s Mane, Reishi, Chaga, Maitake, and Shiitake. These mushrooms, collectively recognized as adaptogenic, can help support your cognitive health, manage daily stress, improve sleep quality, and support your immune system. * This all-in-one approach makes it easy to include adaptogens into your routine.

* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

Embrace the Spirit of Halloween, Even If the Kids Are Grown

halloween decorations in front of house. inflatable pumpkins
halloween decorations in front of house. inflatable pumpkins

With its whimsical charm, Halloween has always held a special place in my heart. It was a cherished tradition in my family for many years, eagerly awaited by all of us, not just for the joy it brought my kids but for the unique sense of community it fostered in our neighborhood. As time passed and my children grew up, I wondered: Should I continue celebrating Halloween now that the kids have left the nest?

The answer is a resounding “yes.”

In this post, I’d like to share why, from my perspective, embracing Halloween remains just as vital and rewarding, even when your kids have outgrown their costumes.

1. The Spirit of Community Lives On

Woman at the front door offering funny Halloween candies on a spiderweb shaped bowl.

Halloween is remarkable for its power to bring people together. It’s the night when neighbors emerge from their homes, deck out their houses, and fling their doors open to welcome little goblins and superheroes. It’s a time to reconnect with your neighbors, reinforce your bonds, and meet new people. Just because your kids have grown and moved on doesn’t mean you should miss the chance to engage with your community.

2. Maintaining Cherished Traditions

carve pumpkins for Halloween

Halloween is an enduring tradition for many families, a day filled with fond memories of costumes, pumpkin carving, and candy collecting. By continuing to decorate your home and hand out candy, you keep these traditions alive, preserving the special moments you shared with your children. Recreating these experiences holds a special nostalgia, even when your children have moved on.

3. The Joy of Creativity

Halloween home decoration. Plastic toy skeletons in a wooden box on the fireplace against a dark blue wall. A garland of skeletons. Cobweb on the dresser. Orange candles and lantern.

Decorating your home for Halloween offers a creative outlet, a chance to let your imagination run wild. From eerie yard displays to intricate jack-o’-lantern carvings, it’s an opportunity to express yourself and unleash your inner artist. And who doesn’t enjoy seeing their ideas come to life?

4. Sparking Joy for Others

Orange pumpkin pail spilling Halloween candy on black stone surface with skeleton hands grabbing candy

While the little trick-or-treaters may not be your children, the joy and excitement your decorations and treats bring to their faces are immeasurable. The happiness you share can have a ripple effect, making the night special not just for them but for their parents and the whole community. Spreading joy is a rewarding experience, regardless of your age or familial status.

5. Making New Friends

happy man in vampire costume holding carved pumpkin and embracing wife on cottage porch with halloween decoration

Remember the neighborhood connection I mentioned earlier? One such Halloween turned into a lasting neighborhood friendship that I treasure. Continuing to participate in the Halloween festivities provides a unique opportunity to make new friends and connections, potentially forming bonds that enrich your life.

6. Reigniting Your Inner Child

friends celebrating halloween together

As adults, we often become absorbed in the responsibilities of daily life. Halloween is a chance to reconnect with your inner child, to experience the thrill of anticipation and the joy of simple pleasures. There’s no age limit on the excitement of candy and costumes!

A Friendly Reminder: It’s Never Too Late

halloween pumpkin decorated on front porch

If you still need to purchase candy or decorate, don’t worry.

Since today is Halloween, you can take advantage of the best grocery store deals on candy bags. Even a simple pumpkin on your porch or stoop is all you need to show your neighbors that you’re in on the fun.

So, keep those lights on this Halloween, open your door, and let the festivities fill your home because age should never dim the light of this enchanting holiday.

Happy Halloween!