Half of parents are relying on grandparents to help look after their children, with a fifth struggling with the cost of childcare. A study of 1,000 parents with children aged one to five revealed that 20% depend on grandparents to care for their youngsters due to the financial strain of nursery and formal childcare.
Grandparents are saving mums and dads £5,370 a year by stepping in and helping families dodge daily childcare costs which average £55 a day after funding is applied. However, with health problems such as failing eyesight becoming more prevalent as people get older, 75% fear this would make it harder for their parents to continue playing an active role.
Health and independence concerns
Two thirds confessed they feel dependent on their parents staying healthy and independent so they can continue to rely on them, despite 26% being over 70. Half said they have already noticed their parents are now experiencing age-related health problems, and 36% have witnessed their parents' sight deteriorate in the last five years.
Usman Hussain, consultant ophthalmologist from specialist eye care provider Newmedica, which commissioned the research, said: "Grandparents are an invaluable source of support for families. With many taking an increasingly active role later in life, ensuring they retain good eyesight and remain healthy enough to provide this support is really important."
Preventable sight loss
"In particular, we know that conditions such as cataracts become increasingly common as we age and if left untreated this can lead to a significant and debilitating sight loss. This could rob grandparents of these special moments while also leaving parents without vital support. The good news, though, is that the vast majority sight loss is preventable if picked up and treated early enough," he added.
According to the research carried out by OnePoll, 81% have even needed their parents to step in at short notice because of an emergency or unexpected work commitment. If grandparents were to develop a worsening eye health condition, 79% of parents would actively explore treatment options to help protect or improve their vision, as 83% were aware that most eye conditions causing sight loss are treatable.
Supporting grandparents' vision
Usman Hussain from Newmedica added: "The bond between grandparents and grandchildren is incredibly special, bringing families closer together and creating memories that last a lifetime. That's why it's so important that grandparents are supported to maintain their health and independence, including looking after their eyesight."
"For anyone who is noticing changes in their vision and is worried about sight loss, the most important thing is to get seen early. This gives the best opportunity for effective treatment, which can help grandparents stay actively involved in family life and continue supporting the people who rely on them most," he concluded.
