Effect of laughing therapy on level of depression among elderly

The early recognition and management of depression in the elderly in old age homes using the healthcare resources help to return them to a happier and more fulfilling life. This study investigated the effect of laughing therapy on level of depression among the elderly in selected old age homes in Thiruvananthapuram. The objectives of the study were to assess the level of depression among elderly and to find out the effect of laughing therapy on level of depression among elderly. The third objective was to find out the association of pre-test level of depression among elderly and selected demographic variables. The study was based on J.W.Kenny’s Open System Model. The research design of this study is Quasi experimental two group pre-test-post-test design. The sample consisted of 60 elderly residing in old age homes Thiruvananthapuram district. Purposive sampling was used. The instruments used in this study were the Modified Yesavage Geriatric Depression Scale and demographic proforma. The participants in the treatment group involved in laughing therapy for 30 minutes each day for 7 consecutive days and those in the control group were monitored for depression. A pre-test was given before administering the laughing therapy and a post-test was performed after 1 week. The findings revealed that in experimental group 60% had mild depression and 40% had moderate depression and in control group 46.7% had mild depression and 53.3% had moderate depression. The laughing therapy given to elderly residing in old age homes had significantly reduced their level of depression (p < 0.01) and also there was significant association between level of depression and gender and educational status. Laughing therapy is an innovative option to promote a healthy environment for elderly.