Being Grandparent-less: Why It's Had a Bigger Impact Than I Thought

Losing a grandparent is hard. They're such an integral part of your life. They babysat you when your parents went out or when you were off sick from school. They treated you to sweets and took you to the park when you were a child. For most, a grandparent-grandchild bond is a profound one, one that we treasure. I lost my Nan near the end of 2025, and she was the last surviving grandparent I had. It's sad to say that I can no longer call anyone 'Nan' or 'Grandad' anymore. 

It's a weird feeling knowing that the people who were such a positive part of my childhood are no longer here. I know there is an inevitability about it, and some people will say, "It was going to happen eventually". But that feeling of losing all of my grandparents hit me harder than I ever expected it to. I mean, I'm very fortunate that I have had my grandparents throughout my adulthood so far. I'm 32, and I know others who have lost their grandparents at a much earlier age. 

During adulthood, there are defining moments. For example, graduating from university, getting your first job, getting married or having children. Then there's the sad, defining moments - like losing your grandparents. It's a milestone we all dread, but as I said, it is an inevitability, unfortunately. 

Spending time with my grandparents was a huge part of my childhood. They're essentially your role models, straight after your parents. I know for a fact that my grandparents taught me so many lessons and values that I still carry with me today. My Nan, in particular, taught me how to play cards. That was one great thing about the 90s/early 00s - no iPhones or other sources of technology. My Nan had to find ways to keep my cousins and me entertained! We did things like baking, she took me to town to go to the museum and played board games with me. Her love for grandchildren never wavered, even after requesting to watch the same Disney film for the umpteenth time! These are memories I won't forget.

Grieving for a grandparent is hard, but I felt a really overwhelming sense of loss with my Nan recently. To lose my last surviving grandparent was something I struggled with, and still struggling to comprehend today. They have played an integral part in my life, and any time I think of them, there's a sense of happiness and fondness about it. 

I know some have never had the experience of devoting grandparents or have an estranged relationship with them. I wish I could explain to those who've never had that how it feels to have that joy of seeing your grandparents and giving them a hug. I was fortunate to have THREE sets of grandparents growing up. I'll explain...

My Mum's parents divorced before I was born, and both parents went on to remarry. I adored all of my grandparents, but my Mum's mum and my step-grandad were the ones I had a special bond with. They were my safe place and happy space growing up. My Nan used to cook for me, and my Grandad would watch those black and white films and explain to me what was going on. They were both particularly amazing during the time my parents divorced. As I said, they were my safe space, especially during that turbulent time. 

I can never thank them enough for the wonderful memories and laughter they gave me. 

Even though I'm in my thirties and losing grandparents by this age is (well, was) an inevitability for me, it's like that part of my childhood has gone. Not being able to call Nan or Grandad ever again feels strange and bittersweet.

I'd love to know your thoughts on this!