'Laughter Boss' Program to Encourage Laughter and Humour in Aged Care Facilities

Bethanie, Western Australia’s largest not-for-profit aged care and retirement living provider, is hosting a “Laughter Boss” program at Wearne Cottesloe, Managed by Bethanie to introduce laughter into aged care facilities and improve team moral and relationships with residents. 

Wearne Cottesloe, Managed by Bethanie is the first site in Western Australia to use the program, with workshops being held every Thursday for the next 12 weeks.

The program, presented by the Humour Foundation, brings humour and laughter into aged care and assists staff to meet the quality of life and psychosocial care issues of residents.

Alex Fergusson, Occupational Therapist, from Wearne Cottesloe, Managed by Bethanie comments: “The program is a fantastic opportunity for staff to learn new techniques to improve the daily lives of residents.

"We are proud to be the first Western Australian site trialing the 12 week program and it will be amazing to see the results and the difference it makes to our residents,” Mr Fergusson continues.

The first workshop, which was held on Friday, 27th November, was a staff training day that incorporated dressing up and trialing different laughter strategies.

The 12 week program focuses on the healing power of humour, which lowers stress, reduces anxiety, relives tension, boosts the immune system and creates an atmosphere of positivity and warmth.

Click through for more information on the Laughter Boss Program or to find out more about Bethanie please click here.