Seniors in an assisted living home watched donated comedy skits. They 1) laughed during each of 6 sessions, 2) completed surveys to rank & recommend skits, 3) actively participated in discussions, 4) attended regularly, and 5) felt good about contributing to research. Based on these criteria, the humor program was considered a success. Surprisingly, seniors 1) did not laugh at comedy they grew up with and remembered as funny and 2) laughed at skits they later alleged to be "offensive." Successful humor programs can rely on a trial-&-error approach and need not be expensive, complex, or labor-intensive. Finally, those who believe in the benefits of laughter should not be afraid to develop a humor program as long as the sponsoring organization is supportive.

• This report represents the work of one or more WPI undergraduate students submitted to the faculty as evidence of completion of a degree requirement. WPI routinely publishes these reports on its website without editorial or peer review.

Creator

• Jajosky, Audrey N.

Subject

• Health
• Community
• Well-Being
• Culture

Publisher

• Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Identifier

• E-project-102306-162704

Keyword

• Personality and intelligence
• Mental health

Advisor

• Gibson, Daniel G.

Year

• 2006

Sponsor

• Goddard House

Date created

• 2006-10-23

Location

• Worcester

Resource type

• Interactive Qualifying Project

Rights statement

• In Copyright