An Experimental Study To Assess The Effectiveness Of Humor Therapy On Depression And Quality Of Life Among The Elderly

Abstract

Background

Several studies have demonstrated that humor therapy helps maintain balance across the biological, psychological, social, and cultural dimensions of life in older adults. Purposeful laughter fosters greater happiness and enhances overall well-being. Evidence further suggests that humor therapy can significantly reduce depression and thereby improve the quality of life among the elderly.

Methodology
A true experimental two-group pre- and post-test design was employed in selected community areas and old age homes of Sabarkantha district, Gujarat. A total of 200 elderly individuals (≥60 years) with depression, residing in the selected settings, were recruited through purposive sampling and equally assigned to experimental and control groups. The experimental group received humor therapy sessions three times per week for three weeks, whereas the control group received standard care. Data were collected using a validated tool developed with expert input (Cronbach’s α = 0.84), along with standardized instruments including the Geriatric Depression Scale and the WHO Quality of Life Scale. Statistical analysis was performed using descriptive and inferential methods, including paired and unpaired t-tests and Chi-square tests. Ethical approval was obtained from the Medistar Hospital Ethics Committee (Approval No. P.NO/EC/04/2024).

Results
post-intervention the experimental group demonstrated a significant reduction in depression scores (from 18.76 ± 2.89 to 10.9 ± 1.78; p < 0.05), compared to only a marginal change in the control group. Fifty-nine percent of participants in the experimental group achieved normal depression score. The experimental group also reported significantly better quality of life scores (55.96 ± 5.93) than the control group (42.40 ± 6.28; p < 0.05). Furthermore, favourable attitude toward humour therapy (higher rates of quality of life and reduce depression score) and improved outcomes were more common in the experimental group. Depression levels were significantly associated with age, sex, marital status occupation, income, religion, and sources of information.

Conclusion
The humour therapy reduced depression level enhanced positive attitude toward humour therapy, improved quality of life experiences. These findings advocate for the humour therapy should be integrated into routine old age people care to promote psychological wellbeing and enhances coping ability for dealing with depression situation and improves quality of life.