Frequency of laughter predicts subsequent functional ability in community-dwelling older Japanese

Abstract

Introduction: The importance of positive emotion to our health has been recognized. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between frequency of laughter (FOL) and subsequent functional ability in community-dwelling older Japanese. Methods: A two-year prospective study was conducted among 480 residents (male: 213, female: 267) of Tosa Town aged 65 and older without disability in performing basic activities of daily living (BADL) at baseline. Measures included self-ratings of FOL, functional ability, sociodemographic factors, depression, self-rated health and medical conditions. Odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) of functional decline two years later according to level of FOL at baseline were estimated using logistic regression models. Results: 52 (10.8%) participants reported a decline in BADL at follow-up. Low FOL at baseline was significantly associated with a higher risk of functional decline, even after controlling for potential confounding factors (OR: 3.2, 95% CI: 1.3-7.8). Conclusions: Frequency of laughter might be a predictor of subsequent loss or maintenance of functional ability among older people.