Did you know that laughter could be one of the best things you can do for your brain and body?
It’s true — and science backs it up. According to the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA), laughter reduces stress, improves mood, and strengthens social bonds. For older adults, these effects can be especially powerful in maintaining emotional and cognitive health.
Whether it’s a shared joke over coffee or a funny memory that brings back a chuckle, laughter keeps us feeling connected, youthful, and grounded in the moment.
The Science Behind the Smile
Laughter doesn’t just feel good — it is good for you.
A 2019 study published in the Journal of Aging Research and Clinical Practice found that older adults who engage in frequent laughter experience better short-term memory and lower cortisol levels (that’s the hormone associated with stress). The study, conducted with support from researchers in Alberta and Ontario, emphasized that laughter-based activities could be used as part of memory care strategies in senior communities.
And according to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada, laughter may even have cardiovascular benefits — reducing blood pressure and improving circulation, much like light physical activity.
Laughing Is Good for the Brain
Social laughter — like the kind we share during game nights, community events, or Zoom calls with grandkids — stimulates multiple regions of the brain. It enhances cognitive flexibility, improves resilience, and fosters emotional regulation.
Programs such as Laughter Yoga Canada, which offers sessions in community centres across the country, combine deep breathing and guided laughter exercises to promote wellness in older adults. Many participants report feeling lighter, happier, and more relaxed — after just one class.
What Makes You Laugh?
Everyone’s sense of humour is different, and that’s the beauty of it. Maybe it’s an old comedy sketch, a goofy pet, or a story that always brings a smile. Think about the last time you laughed — really laughed. How did it make you feel?
We’d love to know: What always makes you laugh?
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Laughter: Your Everyday Wellness Tool
You don’t need a prescription or a gym membership to start laughing more — just a little time, a few good friends, and a willingness to see the lighter side of life.
As the CMHA reminds us: “Finding humour in everyday situations helps us build resilience and cope better with life’s challenges.”
So go ahead — laugh often. Your brain, your body, and your spirit will thank you.
Because aging well should feel this good.