| The purpose of this study was to conduct a survey of activity professionals employed in long-term care facilities in the Commonwealth of Virginia to determine the extent to which humor was used with residents. In addition, the survey generated information that can be used in the future to formulate a statewide training program to promote the use of humor in long-term care.; A mailed questionnaire was sent to 235 activity directors of long-term care facilities in Virginia who agreed to participate in this study. This survey garnered a 25% return rate. The questionnaire inquired about the structure, process, perceived outcomes, and barriers associated with the use of humor modalities, as well as training needs of activity professionals on this topic. An addendum to the main questionnaire inquired about individual activity staff attitudes and beliefs about using humor with long-term care residents.; Using descriptive analysis, humor modalities and techniques fell into four categories. These included routine activities (e.g., humorous videos), special events, environmental approaches (e.g., decorations and humor corners), and spontaneous humorous exchanges, which occur between staff and residents. The most notable perceived outcomes of humor modalities were improved mood and increased socialization among residents. However, there was very little evidence found that humor modalities were used as a structured intervention based on an assessment of resident needs. The most prevalent barrier to using humor was the functional limitations of residents, particularly cognitive dysfunction.; Using non-parametric analysis, no significant relationship was found between the use of humor and the size and type of facility, and the education and credentials of activity professionals. A factor analysis was used to examine staff attitudes and beliefs about using humor. This explained 66% of the variance, and produced several distinct factors. Overall humor use by activity professionals correlated significantly with two of these factors-staff personality and functional limitations of nursing home residents. Respondents indicated a desire for training on using humor with long-term care residents, and the survey provided clear direction for developing training programs. |
