Would you move to be closer to grandchildren?
Proximity to family is a huge consideration for many retirees.
Staying closely involved with your adult children and watching your grandchildren grow is a meaningful part of later life for many. And because of this, living away from family is often a powerful incentive to relocate.
But moving across the country or abroad to be nearer your children also comes with its own tradeoffs. Though you gain access to family you lose ties you’ve made to friends and a community that in many cases have been built up over a lifetime.
For some, starting over is an exciting prospect. Others move with little thought of the consequences and find themselves isolated and regretful of making such a drastic move. After all, though moving brings you closer to your family, in retirement you still have your own life to enjoy.
On the other hand, particularly as you age, it can be a comfort to know your family is nearby to help and care for you when you need it, and can be hugely rewarding to be able to offer support to your children and provide childcare for your grandchildren when they’re young.
What do you think? Is it worth moving to be closer to grandchildren? Is what you can potentially gain better than what you would lose? Or are there better ways to keep a close connection to long-distance family members?
