May 8th is World Laughter Day

Elder Care in Manassas City VA

At some point in your life, you’ve probably heard the phrase “laughter is the best medicine.”  The truth is that it isn’t just a cute and catchy phrase, there is actually some truth to the statement.  Research has shown that laughter can have a therapeutic effect and many health benefits for people of all ages, including elderly adults.  May 8th is World Laughter Day, a day to laugh and celebrate all of the wonderful things that laughter can do.  To celebrate this year, why not watch a funny movie with your loved one, read a comedic book together, or enjoy a funny T.V. program?  When your loved one laughs at a funny scene or joke, they will be getting these great health benefits and more:

Lower Stress

Laughter has the ability lower stress and relax the body and mind.  Doing an activity that inspires laughter (like watching a funny movie or T.V. show) can help your loved one to fight stress and anxiety and give their mood a boost.

Better Immunity

When elderly adults are under too much stress, it can weaken the immune system, making them more susceptible to colds and other infections.  Elderly adults who beat stress by laughing may find that they have stronger immune systems and can better fight off illnesses.

Pain Relief

Interestingly enough, laughter can actually act as a mild pain killer and dull pain.  If your loved one suffers from chronic pain from arthritis, backaches, etc., they may notice that they are better able to manage their pain when they doing an activity that makes them laugh like reading a funny book or article.

Lower Blood Sugar Levels

This benefit is especially important for elderly adults suffering from diabetes.  Some research has shown that laughter can help the body regulate blood sugar levels after a meal.

Better Blood Flow

Since laughter promotes relaxation, it can aid blood flow throughout the body.  Being under stress, on the other hand, can cause blood vessels to tense up which can restrict blood flow.

Better Quality of Life

Laughing with friends and family is fun and enjoyable regardless of the health benefits.  And, in a way, this might be laughter’s most significant health benefit.  Elderly adults who routinely engage in fun, laughter-inducing activities such as spending time with friends, watching funny movies, and reading funny books, often have a better quality of life.

If you or an aging loved one are considering hiring a professional elder care in Manassas City, VA, please contact the caring staff at LivinRite Home Care. Call Us Today at (703) 369-6677. Serving Northern Virginia, The Valley, and Surrounding Communities

Source: http://www.webmd.com/balance/features/give-your-body-boost-with-laughter

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Julie McCormick, Co-Owner

Co-Owner at LivinRite Home Care

LivinRite is a Medicare certified agency based in Manassas, VA. Since 2003 we have been committed to providing the best home health care available. Our company was started by a registered nurse who still owns and operates the company today. Julie McCormick and Brendan McCormick are co-owners and founders of LivinRite Home Health Services. Between the two of them comes over 35 years of home health care experience. Julie is a Registered Nurse with extensive experience in Emergency Medicine, Cardiac Critical Care, Oncology & Infusion Services.

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