Involving Teens and Young Adults in Supporting Aging Loved Ones

According to the AARP Home and Community Preferences Survey, about 75% of adults aged 50 and older would prefer to remain in their own homes and communities as they age. However, when health needs increase and more hands-on care is required, it’s not uncommon for older adults to move in with their adult children. In many of those households, grandchildren play a role in providing support.

Caring for aging loved ones is a journey many families face together, and younger generations are becoming an increasingly larger part of that story, as more and more Gen Zers step up to help care for their grandparents.

Even for teens, senior caregiving can be demanding, but it’s also an opportunity to gain valuable life lessons and create lasting memories. Younger family members can make a real difference by offering companionship, assisting with everyday tasks, providing tech support, or simply sharing stories and lending a compassionate ear. Their support not only lightens the load for their parents but also brings warmth, laughter and new energy into caregiving.

Six Simple Ways Teens Can Help Care for Grandparents

In households where grandchildren are part of the family, there are simple yet meaningful ways to involve them in caregiving responsibilities.

1. Offer Companionship and Emotional Support – Teens and seniors can spend quality time together by watching TV, playing games, sharing stories or simply chatting.
2. Assist with Chores – Helping with light housekeeping chores, such as dusting, washing dishes, vacuuming or folding laundry, can go a long way in easing a caregiver’s daily burdens.  If your teen has a driver’s license, consider giving them errands like picking up groceries, prescriptions, or takeout.
3. Cooking – Teens can be helpful in the kitchen by preparing simple meals for the family. If you have a tween who may not be comfortable using the stove, they can still help by making sandwiches, smoothies, or microwaving soup and frozen dinners. AARP  suggests that if a grandparent can make their sandwich but has trouble moving around the kitchen, your teen can help by bringing the ingredients to the table. It’s a simple way to lend a hand while still allowing the grandparent to maintain their independence.
4. Provide Tech Support – Your teenagers are digital natives. Encourage them to share their knowledge by showing grandparents how to use smartphones, tablets, computers or smart home devices. This will go a long way in helping seniors stay connected and engaged.
5. Participate in Activities – Teens and seniors can participate in activities such as walks, puzzles, or crafts, which can also boost physical and mental health.
6. Share Family History – How much does your teen know about your family’s story? Encourage your teen to sit down with a grandparent to help bring family history to life. They’ll hear firsthand accounts of names, relationships and memorable stories — the kind of details you won’t find in any book or record. It’s a meaningful way to preserve memories, strengthen family bonds and help the next generation feel connected to their roots.

Celebrate Contributions

Supportcaregiving.org says it’s important to acknowledge and celebrate the efforts of teens and young adults who help with caregiving. This recognition not only reinforces the value of their contributions but also encourages ongoing involvement.

Benefits for All Generations

Caring for aging loved ones is a family effort, and younger generations can play a key role. By offering their time, energy and some simple acts of kindness, young people can lghten the load for their parents while building stronger relationships with grandparents or older family members. Whether it’s lending a supportive ear, sharing a laugh, or just being present, these moments of support matter. Together, families can create a circle of care that makes everyone feel valued, supported and loved.

Where You Live Matters

Where You Live Matters is powered by the American Seniors Housing Association (ASHA), a respected voice in the senior housing industry. ASHA primarily focuses on legislative and regulatory advocacy, research, and educational opportunities and networking for senior living executives, so they can better understand the needs of older adults across the country.

Sources:
Home Care Advocacy Network
Transcend Strategy Group
Safesplash.com