Significant improvements in mental health, aerobic endurance, self-efficacy for LaughActive program
FRIDAY, Sept. 23, 2016 (HealthDay News) — For older adults, combining simulated laughter exercises with a moderate-intensity strength, balance, and flexibility physical activity program is associated with improvements in health, physical performance, and self-efficacy for exercise, according to a study published online Aug. 4 in The Gerontologist.
Celeste M. Greene, from Georgia State University in Atlanta, and colleagues used pre- and six-week post-intervention comparisons within and between groups to examine the impact of combining simulated laughter exercises with a moderate-intensity strength, balance, and flexibility physical activity program (LaughActive) in older adults residing in assisted living facilities. Twenty-seven older adults participated in twice-weekly LaughActive classes.
The researchers observed significant improvements in mental health, aerobic endurance, and self-efficacy for exercise.
“This pilot study demonstrated promising results and may spark more research to evaluate the potential of simulated laughter in conjunction with physical activity as a viable technique for enhancing the health and adherence outcomes of physical activity programs,” the authors write.
One author disclosed employment with LaughActive.
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