Let’s be real dear readers of our Manor Lake Athens Assisted Living and Memory Care blog. Half of you is going to be disappointed in the results of this year’s presidential election. The other half, likely some cross between relief and celebration. Whichever camp you reside within, you (and your assisted living and/or memory care loved ones) will be deeply rewarded by laughing it off. As it turns out, Reader’s Digest has been right all these years: Laughter is the best medicine!

There are many benefits of laughter on mental and physical health, but here are five we think are most important:

Boosts Mood: Laughter triggers the release of endorphins, the body’s natural feel-good chemicals, which can promote an overall sense of well-being.

Reduces Stress: Laughter decreases the production of stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline, helping to relax the body and alleviate tension in both the muscles and the mind.

Strengthens Immune System: Regular laughter can increase the production of immune cells and antibodies, thus improving the body’s ability to fight off infections and illnesses.

Improves Cardiovascular Health: Laughter has been shown to improve blood flow and circulation, which can lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke.

Boosts Cognitive Function: Laughter can increase oxygen flow to the brain, promoting mental clarity, creativity, and problem-solving abilities.

Here at Manor Lake Athens Assisted Living and Memory Care in Athens, GA, we laugh with our beloved residents every day. Everyone here unanimously agrees that laughter and love is simply the single best unpaid benefit of serving here. Laughter fills our communal spaces, and it is impossible to tell who is doing it for who.