How a weekly laughter club is fighting senior loneliness in Germany

Every Tuesday, a group of seniors meets for an hour of laughter and jokes. The session, called What's So Funny!, was started eight years ago by Judy Wattenberg, an 81-year-old who wanted to help older adults without nearby family. She calls them 'elderly orphans' and believes humour can ease loneliness and hardship.

Wattenberg launched the program to bring people together through shared laughter. She finds joy in seeing participants smile and connect. The weekly gatherings offer routine and a sense of community for those who might otherwise feel isolated.

Amy O'Rourke, an expert from *Aging Untold*, supports the idea that humour and social bonds help manage emotional struggles. At a recent session, member Abbey Barr shared jokes, keeping the energy light and engaging. While no nationwide statistics track similar initiatives, local programs like this one exist in cities across Germany. Places such as Waltrop, Bergisch Gladbach, and Frankfurt show strong activity, particularly in urban areas tackling loneliness among older adults.

The What's So Funny! sessions continue to provide a space for seniors to laugh and bond. Wattenberg's effort highlights how small, regular gatherings can combat isolation. For participants, the meetings offer both companionship and a way to navigate life's challenges with humour.