Many of us parents would be well and truly lost without our own mum and dad.

 

Whether it's looking for advice, a few recipe ideas or even an escape when things get too much at home, you are never too old to rely on your parents. 

 

But it's not just food ideas that some of us need; in fact, nowadays, many grandparents take over the role of childminder as their own children go back to work.

 

 

And it is not just you that this is benefiting.

 

According to a study published in Evolution and Human Behaviourcaring for grandchildren can add five years to the life of a grandparent - now that's something to say start with the next time you're looking for a babysitter. 

 

However, study author Ralph Hertwig said that this doesn't mean we should take advantage. 

 

 

“Helping shouldn’t be misunderstood as a panacea for a longer life,” he wrote in a statement.

 

“A moderate level of caregiving involvement does seem to have positive effects on health. But previous studies have shown that more intense involvement causes stress, which has negative effects on physical and mental health.”

 

Do you look after your grandchildren? Let us know here and you could be in with a chance of winning €250.

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