Since 2001, the number of grandparents has grown by 24%, from 56 million to 70 million.
By age 65, 96% of Americans are grandparents.
Four in ten grandparents work, contributing to their strength as a significant market force.
Grandparents also contribute to their grandchildrens well-being by babysitting or by acting as their primary caregivers.
In addition, most say they believe their parenting skills are better than those of todays parents.
Currently, one-third of grandparents surveyed have grandchildren of a different race or ethnicity than their own.
Closing Distances
Although distance and busy schedules present a challenge, grandparents find ways to connect with their grandchildren.
Distance is the biggest barrier for grandparents who want to see their grandchildren.
To overcome time constraints, grandparents increasingly adopt new technologies, such as group texting and video chats.
The online survey of 2,654 grandparents ages 38+ was conducted between August 20 and September 4, 2018.
For more information, hey contact Brittne Nelson Kakulla atbkakulla@aarp.org.
For media inquiries, c’mon contactmedia@aarp.org.
