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There have been several studies conducted that have shown how beneficial it is to remain active throughout your life. Staying active while aging helps to not only keep your body healthy, but it also helps to keep your mind and emotional state healthy. One fun and easy way to stay active is to play with your grandchildren.

Active Activities
The type of activities that you do with your grandkids is going to depend a lot on your current fitness level. If you are still active and able to participate in more physical activities then consider: hiking, biking, playing ball games, swimming and playing tag. The more of these activities you do now, the longer you will stay healthy and active. If you are working on your fitness level, then you can work your way up to modified versions of these fun activities.

Moderately Active Activities
Grandparents who are still moderately active, but have a disability, mobility, strength or endurance issues to contend with, don't have to sit things out. They can try modified versions of the above active activities, or they can try some lower key activities. Some moderately active activities that grandparents can do with their grandchildren include bowling, miniature golf, fishing and Wii games.

Sit Down Activities
Older grandparents, or grandparents with health concerns, can also have fun with their grandkids. Just shift the focus on activities that are less physical. Board games, arts and crafts, telling stories and reading stories are all activities that grandparents can do with their grandkids. These activities will keep all of your minds active, which will not only help you to reduce your risk for neurological disorders like dementia and Alzheimer's disease, but it will bring you all together as a family.

Making Modifications
As mentioned above, you can modify some of the more physical activities listed above so that you can participate in them even with a disability. Simple modifications include things like playing on a surface that is easy for a wheelchair to navigate over, lowering the volleyball net or using adaptive equipment. Modifications can also be made to the game, such as using a larger ball, using a beach ball and reducing the amount of time or points needed for a round.

Quality Time
No matter what your physical condition is you can have fun with your grandkids. Most grandkids are just thrilled that you are spending time with them. If you can't be out in the field playing baseball with them, go to one of their school or team games. Cheering them on and offering your support are both great ways to have fun with your grandkids.

Playing With the Grandkids
Staying mentally and physically active is going to provide you with many extra years of good health and viability. Playing with your grandkids is one way that you can stay active. This option not only strengthens your mind and body, but it also strengthens your relationship with your grandkids.