New research links humor to improved wellbeing in later life

Humor plays a vital role in helping older adults cope with the challenges of ageing and staying socially connected, according to new research. 

The research team at Aberystwyth University drew on indepth interviews with older adults across Wales, Scotland and England, to reveal the ways humor impacts wellbeing in later life. 

The study showed that older people use it as a coping mechanism, and a way of maintaining dignity in the face of bereavement and the declining wellbeing of loved ones. 

The academics also found that the over 60s also use comedy to allay their health concerns and as a social lifeline. 

Women were more likely to describe using it to navigate emotionally sensitive situations or to deflect difficult feelings, while men tended to emphasize its role in social bonding. Women were also more aware of the negative side of joke-telling than men. 

Lead author Heather Heap, from Aberystwyth University's Department of Psychology, said: 

"Listening to participants talk about humor in their everyday lives made it clear just how deeply woven it is into the experience of ageing. Many expressed the sentiment 'if I didn't laugh, I would cry,' and that really captures the emotional weight humor carries for older adults. What we saw in the interviews was that humor isn't just light relief - it's a coping mechanism, a social glue and, for some, even a protective mask on what they described as their 'dark days.' 

At the same time, participants were very clear that humor can be intimate and uplifting, but also harmful when it targets people rather than situations. Understanding that balance is essential if we want to appreciate the real role humor plays in wellbeing later in life."

Heather Heap, Aberystwyth University 

The study found that shared laughter strengthens relationships and motivates older adults to seek out social interaction. 

Those with better wellbeing tended to use humor outwardly - to uplift others, build connections and maintain a positive outlook. In contrast, participants with lower wellbeing more often used humor defensively, as a mask or coping shield. 

Several participants said they felt out of step with the humor of younger generations. Some worried that the humor they enjoy is no longer considered acceptable, leaving them cautious about expressing themselves for fear of causing offence. 

The research also found complex picture when it comes to the types of jokes and comedy older people prefer. Coauthor Dr Gil Greengross said: 

"While some older people told us they enjoyed dry or dark humour, many disliked jokes that targeted individuals, used profanity, or relied on aggressive comedic styles. And, while some felt that agerelated jokes and stereotypes can reinforce negative selfimage, others found such jokes relatable – particularly when shared with another older person." 

"The findings underline the need to take humor seriously within ageing research. We need larger and more diverse studies to explore differences across groups of older adults in greater depth."