Grandma on the Move
This month’s Ask Ron Villano syndicated advice column is about a daughter’s change of life and what a new Grandma can do to help out but not stay there forever.
Dear Ron:
After a lot of discussion, my husband and I have decided to move closer to our daughter for about 6 months after she has our first grandchild so she can settle in with her new life before she returns to work. While we are excited about this whole new chapter, and she and I have talked about responsibilities, I worry that we’re moving to a place where there is no family and friends around. It’s been a lifetime since we had to make new friends so where do we begin? — Grandma in Waiting!
Dear Grandma:
Sounds like a great adventure for both of you! Go with the idea of finding and being active. If you haven’t already rented a place, see about renting in a 55+ community. Often, there are planned activities and events to help you meet others and do things. Stop by the local library and talk with their librarians about the things they offer. The local town government may also offer some programs. And an easy way to be active is to simply continue to do the things you do at home while you are away like golfing, pickle ball or bowling for example. Activity brings you together with new people, creates the common bond that you can talk about, and then be open to see how things grow from there. Maybe new lifelong friends or just people you met while having an amazing 6 months with your first grandchild. Either way… you’ll create a very rewarding and fulfilling time.
Additional tips for success:
- Make sure to set time boundaries between being a babysitter, being a grandma, and enjoying your time away from home
- Have specific conversations before leaving for the relocation to make sure both understand the responsibilities
- Develop the exit strategy that will return you back to your home which includes a timeline of tasks for your daughter to accomplish
