Why Laughter yoga for seniors?
“You don’t stop laughing because you grow old. You grow old because you stop laughing.” — Michael Pritchard
Due to advances in medical science, life expectancy has increased and the elder population is growing at an alarming rate worldwide. Their quality of life is deteriorating due to health problems and loneliness. As younger members of the family move away, elderly people find themselves alone. What they need is someone to talk to, and share their emotions with. LY addresses all of the issues seniors face. First, it’s a great health building exercise and second it brings people together like an extended family thereby improving the quality of life.
Laughter Yoga gives elders a reason and purpose to live fully every day. This simple and easy to do exercise routine is being practiced by people in their 70s, 80s and 90s! LY is a great tool for transformational aging and increased longevity. We have many research studies which measures the positive effects of LY for seniors.
Laughter Yoga Ideally suited for seniors
With advancing age, older adults stop laughing due to dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Due to decline in cognitive abilities, they are unable to comprehend humour and jokes. Laughter Yoga is ideally suited for seniors as it brings more laughter into their lives. As it is a physically oriented technique, LY is an ideal exercise program for seniors as they receive many health benefits without relying on their mental or cognitive abilities.
Catch Them Young
Seniors can be divided into 2 categories: Retired and still active. Assisted living. If seniors start using LY early in their retirement, they will live a better quality of life for more years (and won’t end up in a nursing home early!) For those living in aged care facilities, LY can help to stimulate physical and mental health.
Health Benefits
As they grow older they develop age-related health problems such as high blood pressure, diabetes, arthritis and many other chronic health conditions. This leads them to spend most of their time visiting doctors and hospitals. LY facilitates healing by strengthening the immune system, improving blood circulation, and increasing oxygen to the body’s cells. It provides a powerful cardiovascular workout strengthening their muscles, especially for seniors unable to move their bodies to do physical exercises.
Supports Good Mental Health
Many seniors suffer from depression, loneliness and frustration. As they lose their loved ones and health, it becomes increasingly difficult to maintain a positive mental attitude. LY changes a person’s biochemistry in a way that supports good mental health regardless of circumstances.
Social Bonding and Community Building
LY is fast developing close knit communities and extended families worldwide. As elders are always seeking human contact and connection, LY provides an effective network of caring and sharing relationships which is the key to a happy and healthy life which dissipates loneliness.
LY encourages strong social bonding with friends, relatives, fellow residents at care facilities, as well as caregivers and medical personnel.
