Benefits of Advanced Maternal Age: Parenting in Your Prime
Storytime! Shared with permission. A client called me the other day laughing hysterically after leaving her 34-week prenatal appointment with her husband. It was his first time going with her to a prenatal visit. The conversation and laughter that ensued was the highlight of my day.
Long story short, her husband heard "advanced maternal age" and "geriatric patient" used more times than he could recall at that appointment, and he was shocked, scared, and confused. They left. He had so many questions for the doctor, but instead of asking he was frozen in disbelief, shock, and some fear, to be honest.
There was silence for the first few minutes of the drive home and then all of his thoughts and questions came pouring out onto his wife as they pulled into the driveway, she answered the questions and they laughed. Okay, it was mostly her laughing. He ended up going inside and she hung back. Enter the call to me!
We shared some laughs and frustrations, and I told her I would write up just the blog to encourage him. And I did! Without further ado, here it is!
Trends show that there may a societal shift happening, more and more people are becoming parents in their late 30s and 40s. For some, it's a choice, and for others it's just the way it worked out for them. Whatever the reason, the benefits of advanced maternal age (AMA) are plentiful. So, instead of focusing on the other side of the coin, today we are celebrating these benefits! After all, the fact that 20% of women are 35 years of age or older when having a baby is saying something about motherhood.
Emotional Maturity and Stability
One of the significant advantages of starting a family a little later in life is the emotional maturity and stability that often accompanies this life stage. With a wealth of life experiences under their belts, individuals in this age group tend to approach parenting challenges with a calm and thoughtful demeanor. These parents usually fall into, what I call, the "choose your battles wisely" group. The resilience gained through years of navigating life's ups and downs can contribute to a more stable and emotionally secure environment for their child. These parents are less likely to fret or lose their patience over the little things they once would have when they were in their twenties. Also, the established career and financial stability of parents in this age range provide a solid foundation for the family. The reduced stress related to economic uncertainties allows for a focus on the emotional well-being of both parents and the child.
Established Relationships and Support System with Advanced Maternal Age
Another benefit of parenting in your prime is the solid foundation in long-term partnerships and collaborative parenting. Parents who choose to start a family in their late 30s and early 40s often do so within the context of well-established and committed relationships. This stability can contribute to a more supportive and cohesive family unit, fostering a nurturing environment for the child's development.
Older parents also tend to have stronger social networks for emotional and practical support. The importance of a support system cannot be overstated, especially during the early stages of parenthood. Having friends and family who understand the complexities of life can offer invaluable advice, emotional support, and practical assistance.
Career Advancement and Personal Fulfillment
Another silver lining that comes with AMA is career advancement and personal fulfillment. Many parents in their prime may have multiple streams of income and or have already achieved significant milestones in their professional lives, providing financial security for the family. This stability allows them to approach parenting with a greater sense of assurance and focus. The decision to start a family later in life can also enable individuals to pursue personal goals and passions without compromising on their responsibilities as parents. Balancing parenthood with personal growth and fulfillment becomes a more manageable task, contributing to a well-rounded and fulfilling family life.
Advanced Maternal Age and Financial Security
Financial security is one very important factor in creating a comfortable environment for the child. Parents in this age range often benefit from higher earning potential and financial stability. Financial security isn't everything, in fact I think it's likely one of the least important aspects of being a great parent, but financial security translates into the ability to provide not only for the child's basic needs but also for a range of enriching experiences, such as educational opportunities, extracurricular activities, and travel.
There is strong statistics that show financial stability ensures that the child can grow up in an environment where economic concerns do not overshadow the joy of childhood. This stability also allows for a more comprehensive investment in the child's future, setting the stage for success in various aspects of life.
Health and Wellbeing that Comes with Advanced Maternal Age
No matter what age you are when you start a family, prioritizing health and well-being is paramount. However, parents of AMA often find themselves with a unique advantage in this area, thanks to the various benefits they bring from their wealth of life experiences.
Individuals in their late 30s and 40s tend to exhibit a greater focus on personal health and wellness, acknowledging the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Access to advanced healthcare, prenatal, and fourth-trimester services is another advantage associated with advanced maternal age. Older parents typically have the means to tap into more comprehensive resources, leading to a smoother transition into parenthood.
By understanding the impact and embracing a proactive approach to health and well-being, older parents not only prioritize their own health and wellbeing more often, but also set the stage for instilling healthy habits in their children.
Maternal & Paternal Grandparent Involvement
Grandparents whose children are having their babies in their prime are more likely to be actively involved in the lives of their grandchildren, providing an additional layer of support and enrichment. The child benefits from the wisdom and experiences of an additional generation, creating a rich tapestry of intergenerational relationships. Grandparents who are more actively engaged can pass down cultural values, familial stories, and traditions that contribute to the child's sense of identity and belonging.
Advanced Maternal Age Isn't a Curse, The Benefits are Plentiful
Becoming a parent is remarkable! Whether you find yourself embracing parenthood in your 20s, 30s, 40s, or beyond, there is a beauty in the diversity of parenting journeys, each offering its own set of strengths and advantages. Parenting is not a one-size-fits-all endeavor, and there's no magic age that defines the perfect time to welcome a baby into your life. The uniqueness of your journey is what makes it truly special.
If you're in your late 30s or 40s, the advantages of advanced maternal age bring a wealth of experiences, stability, and wisdom that can enrich the parenting adventure. For those embarking on parenthood at a younger age, the energy, resilience, and shared growth with your child will form the heart of your parenting story. Each age group contributes its own unique palette to the canvas of parenthood, creating a mosaic of love, learning, and laughter.
Parenthood transcends age brackets, and the love and joy that it brings are timeless.
Authored by Elizabeth Luke
Elizabeth is the founder and CEO of The Jacksonville Baby Company. Elizabeth and her husband and best friend, Richard are parents to four children. With certifications in Postpartum and Infant Care Support, Childbirth and Newborn Care Education, Lactation Support, and Infant Sleep, Elizabeth is a wealth of knowledge and has a heart for helping parents live their best lives while also ensuring their children are safe, happy, and leading their healthiest lives possible! Contact us today for day, night, and live-in support!
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