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Is Laughter Like Strawberry Jam?

Humour is one of the most important human activities, one that is enjoyed daily by people in every culture and at every age. Laughing is universal; no matter how old you are, what language you speak or what your physical or mental abilities are, you can laugh. However, very little is known about how aging affects 'humour' experiences.

People ask me what I’d most appreciate getting for my 87th birthday; I tell them, a paternity suit!  George Burns.

Humour is one of the most important human activities, one that is enjoyed daily by people in every culture and at every age. Laughing is universal; no matter how old you are, what language you speak or what your physical or mental abilities are, you can laugh. However, very little is known about how aging affects ‘humour’ experiences. Research suggests that elderly people enjoy humour more than younger people, but that they have increasing difficulties in understanding jokes.

You’re over the hill when your back goes out more than you do.

Laughing triggers a number of positive physiological responses:

  • Relaxation of the entire Healthy Body, relieving muscle tension and stress
  • Levels of cortisol, the stress hormone, drop and minimize pain and inflammation throughout the Healthy Body
  • The release of endorphins, natural feel-good substances that make you feel happy and content and have been proven to reduce the perception of physical pain
  • Reduction in blood pressure combined with a moderate increase in the heart rate and improved blood circulation and oxygen intake
  • The stimulation of the immune system thanks to the release of T-cells and salivary immunoglobulin A which is triggered by laughter.SeniorHomes.Com-Humor and Laughter: Health Benefits for Seniors & Resources

You know you’re getting old when you stoop to tie your shoes and wonder what else you can do while you’re down there.

Maggie Kuhn, the Gray Panthers, said there are three good things about aging:

  1. Everyone who has told you, “You’d better not do that,” “That’s not going to work” and, “Are you going to wear that?” is dead.
  2. Since no one takes old people seriously, you can be the person you were always meant to be. Women can be more assertive, men can be more nurturing, and both can strive to be public nuisances.
  3. Because there have been real losses along the way, this is the opportunity to make new friends, explore new interests and try on new roles.

So, yes, laughter IS like strawberry jam; you can’t spread even a small bit without getting some on yourself!

Submitted by Brian Porter – For advice about seniors and care at home, please kindly contact Brian Porter, Director and Owner of Living Assistance Services (LAS), at 416.483.0070