The belief that mothers should focus solely on their children is no longer the default. But with grandmothers, traditional ideas still hold swayConstance fills her days with music. The 77-year-old, who lives in London, studies and performs classical piano. To stay involved with her community, she volunteers with local arts projects, a community garden and an oral history initiative.After a career working as a mental health professional, what Constance wants from retirement is to continue engaging with causes and passions that matter to her. (Her name has been changed for her privacy.) Continue reading...
The article discusses how some grandparents, like Constance, prioritize their personal interests and commitments over being close to their grandchildren, rejecting societal expectations that they should dedicate their lives to caregiving. Constance, a retired mental health professional, emphasizes her dedication to social justice and building a fairer world, stating she would not compromise her commitments for grandchild care unless in an emergency. The piece critiques societal norms that pressure women into caretaking roles, undervaluing their contributions beyond caregiving. It highlights the financial burden on families due to inadequate childcare support and critiques the notion that women's value is tied to caregiving. The article also addresses the emotional impact on those without grandchildren, as some feel pity or confusion. It argues against the expectation that women's lives should center around family obligations, emphasizing their multifaceted contributions to society.
