Grandfather Ken Westgate was being treated in hospital for a fall when doctors diagnosed him with bladder cancer.
Despite spending the past five months undergoing treatment at Fremantle Hospital while awaiting a bed in an aged care home, the 78-year-old has had his spirits lifted thanks to a WA-first program.
The hospital will offer Laughter Care, delivered by Clown Doctors Australia, for the next year following a successful four-week pilot program.
Funded by the Subiaco-based Hospital Research Foundation Group and the South Metropolitan Health Service, the program sees specially trained performers interact with patients to improve wellbeing, reduce emotional distress, and brighten their day.
Mr Westgate, who spent 45 years working overseas for the United Nations and Red Cross and now presents a weekly jazz program on Radio Fremantle, said Laughter Care’s performers “do a wonderful job”.
“It’s just a tremendous idea, it lightens the mood which is terrific,” he said.
“Everyone in here is so different so it’s important for the performers to think fast on their feet to adapt to different circumstances.”
He said performer Audrey, her stage name, was so “cheery and joyful” and he enjoyed singing and playing music with her — two of his “greatest passions”.
Group growth impact lead Ben Wilson said there was a clear correlation between need and the impact the program had on elderly patients.
“The objectives of the program are to boost the mood, dignity and engagement of older patients, strengthen connections between patients, families and staff, and help healthcare workers by reducing their patients’ stress levels,” he said.
“This is a vulnerable but growing cohort that is often caught between no longer being able to remain safely at home and being unable to access a suitable aged care bed.
“The results of the pilot showed us just how powerful this simple approach can be in lifting the mood and engagement of older patients.”
Clown Doctors Australia chief executive Emma Pollard said the program combined health care and the arts to support patient wellbeing.
“Our highly skilled Laughter Care specialists bring warmth, wit and a whole lot of heart to older people, especially those living with dementia or experiencing social isolation,” Ms Pollard said.
Research has shown laughter can improve immunological and endocrinological responses and increase pain tolerance.
The organisations involved will evaluate Laughter Care’s outcomes periodically over the next year.
According to Fiona Stanley Fremantle Hospitals Group executive director Luke Dix, the pilot program provides “moments of connection, comfort and joy within the hospital environment”.
“Feedback received throughout has highlighted the value of meaningful engagement, particularly for patients experiencing vulnerability, isolation or prolonged admissions,” he said.