The love that comes back: grandchildren who changed their grandparents’ lives

The bond between grandparents and grandchildren can give both generations a renewed sense of belonging. Luciana Machluk, a psychogerontologist and University of Buenos Aires professor, says the relationship creates “a platform for emotional exchange” and a strong feeling of continuity.

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This bond can be very beneficial for older people because it creates a platform for emotional exchange, renews the feeling of belonging and generates a strong sense of continuity.

She says the connection also changes as grandchildren grow. Older and younger family members may differ greatly, but those differences can become an opportunity to build a solid relationship. Neither generation simply gives while the other receives. Both have something to offer and something to discover.

Celia Skel’s story shows how that exchange can transform a life. She had spent decades as a homemaker and caregiver. After her husband died three years ago, at the age of 86, she lost her sense of purpose.

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Both have much to give and to discover in the other.

Her granddaughter Florencia Shatal began inviting her to the family clothing business. The venture had been started by Celia’s husband, then passed to Florencia’s father and later to Florencia and her sister. At first, Florencia gave Celia small tasks, such as repairing garments, so she could stay occupied and feel useful.

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If I don’t get her out of the house, she’ll die of depression.

Then Florencia began trying clothes on her grandmother and posting the images online as a game. The posts went viral, and Celia became a model for Índigo Denim. At 89, she gives interviews, travels independently and receives messages from followers who say she inspires them. Her granddaughter describes her as fiercely independent and says she moves “like a teenager.”

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She moves like a teenager!