Researchers probe impact of humour on over 60s’ relationships

Aberystwyth University academics are beginning a new study of how the over-60s use humour with their partners.

Researchers are looking at how humour affects older couples’ relationships by ranking jokes into those that have a negative impact on wellbeing and others that are positive.

Previous research has concentrated on the effect of humour in younger couples’ relationship.

It has shown that aggressive jokes tend to have a negative impact on people’s satisfaction with a relationship.

As part of the new study, academics will survey couples who are sixty and over to see how humour affects them.

Care

Part of the aim of the study is to learn lessons that could be used to improve the care of older people.

Heather Heap from Aberystwyth University, who is running the project, said: “While we all enjoy a good joke, the impact of quips and puns on our relationships and our wellbeing does have a serious side.

“For example, understanding how different factors affect older adults’ relationships may help improve methods of care and treatment. It has important implications for couples’ wellbeing.

“Humour plays an important part in all our lives. Previous research has shown that it has a plethora of benefits – some of which are more obvious that others – for individuals’ mental and physical health, improving life satisfaction and social cohesions in older adults.”

Relationships

Dr Gil Greengross from the Department of Psychology at Aberystwyth University added: “People use humour for many purposes, but little is known about the role humour plays in maintaining romantic relationships. Even less so is known about the way older couples use humour in their relationships.

“We know that humour is an important attribute for many people and we hope to learn more about its uses among a population that is rarely studied.”

The Aberystwyth University researchers are looking for couples where both partners are aged sixty and over to take part in the study. Anyone interested can contact: [email protected] or 01970621635.