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Professional Home Care Solutions
We’ve all heard the old adage, “laughter is the best medicine.” And while it may not cure every ailment, laughter sure is a nice add-on to any care plan. Who doesn’t love to hear an old story, watch a classic tv show, or even an old cartoon?
As we age, there can be a bit that drags us down. Health problems, loneliness, losing loved ones…laughing, and especially finding something to laugh about, is a great way to alleviate tension and remember that there’s always something to smile about.
If you’re worried that your older loved ones aren’t getting enough joy and laughter in their days, having a home health aide visit regularly can provide companionship and some solid chuckles to help alleviate the stresses of the day (on top of many more ways they can help!).
But for now, let’s look more closely at laughter. After all, who doesn’t want to think about laughing?
Sharing lighter moments and laughter encourages bonding.
Laughing while alone is fun, but laughing with others is even better. Most people feel self-conscious laughing out loud when they’re alone, yet it’s precisely what they should do.
Laughter makes you feel good and can reduce pain. It boosts the immune system and lowers blood cortisol levels. Humor is good for the brain. A home care worker who supplies companionship can bring more laughter into the home, whether it’s through a good joke, or watching an old tv show together. When people laugh together, everyone benefits from the experience, while sharing a human connection.
Home care is for physical and mental well-being.
Having a consistent companion or friend who visits regularly provides an emotional outlet. In-home caregivers often become friends who use laughter as part of their interaction with clients. This helps relieve tension and improve mood, while reducing anxiety, and making the tasks of daily life a little bit easier.
Whether sharing funny stories or sitting together watching TV sitcoms, sharing those moments brings renewed energy to both parties. And studies show that seniors with age-related memory problems respond better when humor is part of therapy.
Improve physical health with laughter.
When people laugh, it has a positive effect on their physical health. Laughter provides a similar physical response in the body as exercise. It causes the body to release endorphins, which are nature’s painkillers. It improves the immune system, reducing the risk of infection or illness. A good belly laugh can tense the muscles as much as some core exercises. It improves breathing functions and lung capacity. When caregivers use laughter as part of the care provided, it helps both the caregiver and the person receiving care.
- Laughter can take the tension out of difficult situations and shift the mindset of both the caregiver and the recipient. It allows the brain to find solutions for problems or get past a difficult situation.
- It’s not always easy to find humor when you’re tired and have no time for yourself. That’s when home care professionals can help. They provide time for family caregivers to have a respite to refresh and regroup.
- Laughter is a coping mechanism to help with the highs and lows of life. It’s contagious and brings people together in a shared experience. Laughing with others helps combat loneliness and eliminate the feeling of isolation.
- Incorporating laughter into homecare doesn’t have to be an elaborate process. It can include watching a funny TV show with others, attending live comedy performances, doing fun activities together, or creating an adventurous outing by doing something new.
For more information, call us at (405) 461-6175 or contact us today at LiveBetter At Home.