Whether it’s through a light-hearted joke or a witty observation, humor brings people closer, allowing them to relate to each other in ways that words alone cannot. It’s a universal language that has the power to ease tension, build rapport, and cultivate genuine bonds. For people living with dementia, their sense of humor may have changed or become completely altered.
Changes in a person’s sense of humor can be one of the very early signs of dementia and can occur up to 9 year before any other significant symptoms. These changes are a result of a decline in social functioning, meaning it is more difficult to interpret social cuing and emotional reactions. Although it may look like your loved one is laughing along to jokes and silly banter, they may be mimicking everyone else’s laughter to feel a sense of belonging. Below are some of the signs of humor related changes that a person living with dementia may exhibit:
- An inability to understand other forms of humor that are not obvious or exaggerated
- Laughing at tragic events or at inappropriate times
- Making inappropriate comments to strangers
- Taking certain jokes personally and becoming upset
- No response or reaction when a joke is told or something comical happens
Laughter is said to be the best medicine, and humor can be a great way to help loved ones remain positive and in good spirits. Jokes with a long setup or complex punchline may be difficult to comprehend; slapstick comedy may be a better fit. This is physically exaggerated comedy that exceeds normal standards and boundaries, a good example being the Three Stooges.
Connecting through humor with someone who has dementia can be a unique experience tailored to fit their cognitive functioning. Any interaction that produces a smile or a laugh should be considered a positive one.
Benefits of Laughter
Relief of stress and anxiety
Increased endorphins
Pain relief
Increased oxygen intake
Overall mood improvement
Consider reminiscing on past funny stories, while potentially emphasizing when something was funny. Look at silly photos or videos and attempt to recreate them for your loved one. Even if they do not recall the moment, they will find joy in how it makes them feel.
In those moments of genuine humor, we realize connection is built not just through words, but through the lightness we bring to each other’s lives. Each burst of laughter is a reminder that even in the toughest times, connection can be found in the simplest of sounds.
SOURCES
Loss of Humor an Early Sign of Dementia | Alzheimers.net
Altered Sense of Humor and Dementia: What’s the Connection? – AgingCare.com
Changes in humour an early sign of dementia | UCL News – UCL – University College London
The Benefits of Humor for People Living with Dementia – Bethesda Health Group
