Globally our populations are ageing and with this trend, there is a rise in chronic disease. We know that lifestyle and environment are significant contributors to risk for disease, quality of life and function. Despite this representing an opportunity to improve health and quality of life in ageing, there is a paucity of research in this field. The social aspects of this period of development which have been most researched include employment, function and disability. Grand-parenting is one of the most popular sources of childcare in the world and therefore research investigating this role is of vital significance.