Laughter Care and families of people with dementia in aged care
An article written by Sara-Jane Roberts, Michelle DiGiacomo, University of Technology, Sydney
Laughter Care is a program delivered by The Humour Foundation in residential aged care facilities throughout Australia. It is delivered by Laughter Care Specialists who engage with persons with dementia through personal connection, creative play, and laughter.
We have previously written about the benefits of laughter care for persons with dementia in another blog. Our new research highlights the benefits for families of people with dementia.
Families of persons with dementia in aged care
When people move into residential aged care due to dementia, many of their families visit and continue to provide care for their loved ones. These visits can sometimes be hard for families as they watch their loved one’s dementia get worse. They may have trouble remembering certain things, communicating, or they may behave differently.
Laughter Care and families
In our study, [1] Laughter Care Specialists explained that by creating a light-hearted atmosphere using sensitive, tailored, creative interactions, they often help to bring moments of togetherness and connection between families and their loved ones. In some cases, it can create a brief respite for family carers. This may involve gentle activities such as memory sharing or singing the person’s favourite songs; a visiting family member may just watch or join in.
How can families benefit from Laughter Care?
This research has highlighted potential benefits for families. It can allow them to:
- feel included and useful by sharing information about their family member’s life, likes, and dislikes
- watch their family member have some light-hearted moments through interactions that are centred around their personality and interests
- enjoy the present moment, create new memories, and continue to develop bonds with their loved one
- learn new ways of communicating with their loved one that they can use in future visits
- develop a supportive relationship with the Laughter Care Specialist over time through shared connection and admiration for the person with dementia.
Anecdotally, The Humour Foundation is well aware of how this program impacts on family members. This research is the first to explore the benefits of Laughter Care for families of people with dementia living in residential aged care and we look forward to continuing this work together.
If you are interested in learning more about Laughter Care, you can visit The Humour Foundation Australia.
Authors
Sara-Jane Roberts, PhD Candidate
Research Assistant
University of Technology, Sydney
Michelle DiGiacomo
Associate Professor, Course Director, Palliative Care
University of Technology, Sydney
References
- DiGiacomo M, Roberts SJ, Luckett T, Symons D, Ellis G, Kochovska S, et al. "You're the only thing he comes out [of his room] for": A qualitative study of engagement between Laughter Care Specialists and families of people with dementia in long-term care. Palliat Support Care. 2024 Apr 8:1-6.