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The Science of Generativity- How Kinship Care Prevents Cognitive Decline

  1. The Science of Generativity- How Kinship Care Prevents Cognitive Decline Laura Brazan I Kinship Caregiver Expert 42:36

Have you ever been told that your golden years should be about rest, only to find yourself back in the world of school runs, sports practices, and sleepless nights? Are you a grandparent raising your grandchildren, wrestling with exhaustion and identity loss, while quietly wondering if you’ll ever reclaim a piece of yourself? You may be feeling the heavy weight of duty, but beneath the surface, there’s a quieter transformation happening—one that science now recognizes as generativity.

I’m Laura, and on this episode of 'Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: Nurturing Through Adversity,' we’re flipping the script on Aging. Joined by Dr. Deborah Heiser, a leading voice in developmental psychology, we discover why stepping up as a kinship caregiver might be the healthiest thing you can do for your brain. From the emotional boost of newfound purpose to the surprising cognitive benefits of mentoring a new generation, you’re not just surviving—you’re gaining a powerful new identity. Download her free Mental Mapping checklist here.

https://mentalmapping.floot.app/

You’ll hear real stories of messiness and joy, practical advice for adapting to unexpected Parenting, and scientific insights into the ways kinship care can stave off stagnation and loneliness. We'll talk openly about transitioning from struggle to meaning, and how embracing the joys (and the chaos) of your grandchildren revitalizes your mind, body, and Legacy.

Join us as we celebrate the mentors, athletes of the soul, who are nurturing through adversity and building a legacy stronger than ever before.

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As a grandmother raising two grandchildren, one of my favorite things is watching them connect with the world around them. That's why I'm so in Love with Dr. Dale Atkins new children's book “Dear Deer”. Purchase directly through her website, Amazon or Barnes and Noble. Help our kids log off the screeens and tune back into the world!

A grandmother raising grandchildren leaves a review and share her story and how every listener encourages her in her role as a kinship caregiver, one podcast at a time.

Thank you for tuning into today's episode. It's been a journey of shared stories, insights, and invaluable advice from the heart of a community that knows the beauty and challenges of raising grandchildren. Your presence and engagement mean the world to us and to grandparents everywhere stepping up in ways they never imagined.

Remember, you're not alone on this journey. For more resources, support, and stories, visit our website and follow us on our social media channels. If today's episode moved you, consider sharing it with someone who might find comfort and connection in our shared experiences.

We look forward to bringing more stories and expert advice your way next week. Until then, take care of yourselves and each other.

Want to be a guest on Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: Nurturing Through Adversity? Send Laura Brazan a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/grg

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Laura Brazan Founder of “Grandchildren Raising Grandchildren: Nurturing Through Adversity” Podcast

I am a professional hand engraver and gold inlay artist. I’m from NYC and moved to northwest Montana thirty five years ago. Two years ago my husband and I became legal guardians of two of our seven grandchildren, now ages 5 and 8. With little resources available and no community, I developed the “Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: Nurturing Through Adversity” podcast with the encouragement of the University of Montana. Sharing advice from experts and stories from other grandparents from all over the country we hope to provide hope and community while educating others about this challenging task.