Humour helps older adults cope with ageing – new study

Humour plays a key role in helping older adults cope with the challenges of ageing, maintain dignity and stay socially connected, according to new research led by Aberystwyth University.

The study, based on in-depth interviews with people over 60 across Wales, Scotland and England, found that humour is far more than light entertainment in later life — acting as a coping mechanism, a social tool and, at times, a way of masking difficult emotions.

Researchers found that many older adults rely on humour to navigate experiences such as bereavement, declining health and concerns about loved ones.

Lead author Heather Heap said the findings revealed how deeply embedded humour is in everyday life.

“Many expressed the sentiment ‘if I didn’t laugh, I would cry,’ and that really captures the emotional weight humour carries for older adults,” she said.

“What we saw in the interviews was that humour 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.’”

The research suggests humour can help people retain a sense of dignity during difficult periods, while also encouraging social interaction and strengthening relationships.

Participants described shared laughter as a way of maintaining bonds and combating isolation — an issue that can become more pronounced in later life.

The study also identified differences in how humour is used.

Women were more likely to describe using humour to navigate emotionally sensitive situations or to deflect difficult feelings, while men tended to emphasise its role in social bonding.

Women were also more likely to reflect on the potential negative effects of humour, particularly when jokes are directed at individuals rather than situations.

The research found a link between wellbeing and how humour is used.

Wellbeing

Older adults with higher levels of wellbeing were more likely to use humour outwardly — to uplift others and build connections — while those experiencing lower wellbeing often used it defensively, as a way of shielding difficult emotions.

Co-author Gil Greengross said attitudes towards humour were complex and varied widely.

“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,” he said.

“And while some felt that age-related jokes and stereotypes can reinforce negative self-image, others found such jokes relatable — particularly when shared with another older person.”

Out of step

Some participants also said they felt increasingly out of step with the humour of younger generations, with concerns that what they find funny may now be seen as inappropriate or offensive.

Researchers say this can lead to caution in social situations, potentially limiting self-expression.

The findings highlight the importance of recognising humour as a meaningful part of wellbeing in later life, rather than dismissing it as trivial.

Dr Greengross said further research was needed to better understand how humour differs across groups of older adults.

“The findings underline the need to take humour seriously within ageing research,” he said.

“We need larger and more diverse studies to explore differences across groups of older adults in greater depth.”