Elder Care Nassau County NY
Laughing can do more for our health than just putting us in a good mood. It can be used as a therapeutic tool that will help improve our well-being, increases communication skills, and can help relieve stress. Seniors who receive elderly care may especially find relief and a positive attitude through a simple laugh. If you are assisting with the care of an elderly loved one, you may also be feeling stressed over the numerous responsibilities that have fallen on your shoulders. Before that stress turns to burnout, take some time to celebrate National Humor Month with your loved one by following these tips.
• Tell a joke. Did you hear a joke that your loved one will think is funny? Share it with them! If an in-home care provider is assisting with the daily tasks of the elder, invite them to tell jokes with you as a way to relax and enjoy each other's company.
• Watch a funny movie. Make some snacks and watch a movie together that will have you both laughing out loud. Any negative feelings or moods you may have been feeling before the movie will most likely be replaced with feelings of joy afterwards.
• Have a family game night. Family game nights are always sure to have people rolling on the floor with laughter by the end of the night. Not only will this activity be good for a few laughs, but it will help strengthen the family's bond and build new memories, especially for any children that will be playing the games with you. Invite some family members over and let the games begin!
• Watch funny videos. Videos do not have to be long to be worth a good laugh. Thanks to YouTube, it can take as little as 2 minutes to watch a silly clip that you both will enjoy. Due to the millions of videos to choose from, there is sure to be one that will catch the elder's eye, such as funny animal or baby videos.
• Read the comics. Flip to the comics section of your newspaper to find one that you and your family member will find hilarious. If there is a specific comic strip that the elder finds funny, you may be able to find a book full of comic strips with that character, such as Garfield. These books can be found at the library or almost any bookstore.
• Discuss funny memories. Have a memory that brings laughs every time it is brought up? Share it again with your loved one. They may also have other funny memories to share with you that you were unaware of.
Your loved one's senior care provider most likely spends a majority of her day with your elderly parent, so let her in on the fun as well. These tips should help you get a few chuckles while celebrating National Humor Month.