Why Do Humans Have Grandparents?

The Brain





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Humans are one of the few species that live long after reproductive age. Family Business/Shutterstock

Many of us treasure our grandparents, but it turns out they’re so precious that humans have evolved gene variants that help protect them against certain age-related diseases, like Alzheimer’s. By keeping the older generation healthier, it not only reduces their burden on others but also allows them to keep contributing to society.