(November 8, 2023 – ROCHESTER, NY) On Thursday, November 9, The Clare & Jerry Rotenberg Institute on Aging at Jewish Senior Life will host two symposiums about the positive effect shared laughter has on people living with Alzheimer’s disease and other cognitive challenges. The morning session will take place at 9:30 until 11 a.m. in the Sands Center located at the Jewish Home, and is geared toward professionals working in aging services. The afternoon session is for the general public and caregivers, and will be held at Irondequoit Country Club from 3 until 4:30 p.m.
Dani Klein Modisett, Founder and Chief Executive Officer for Laughter On Call, will partner with comedian and actor, Nikki Ghisel, for two interactive events focused on how levity can enhance connection, support self-care, and promote healing and wellness. Modisett founded Laughter On Call in 2018 after experiencing the positive impact a comedian had on her mother’s wellbeing. She was recently featured on Forbes Magazine’s 50 Over 50 Impact list and Laughter On Call is now a case study for Harvard Business School.
“We know that a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s is no laughing matter—living with or caring for those facing the cognitive and medical challenges of Alzheimer’s can be very stressful and isolating,” says Courtney Porray, Program Director for The Clare & Jerry Rotenberg Institute on Aging. She continues, “Our goals are to empower caregivers and professionals, provide them with tools and techniques to bring humor and positivity into their daily routines, and help people reduce stress and improve communication.”
The Clare and Jerry Rotenberg Institute on Aging was established in 2022 to connect people with innovative programs, knowledgeable experts, and resources to promote positive aging and enhance quality of life. Both events are free to attend. The Jewish Home is located at 2021 Winton Road South and Irondequoit Country Club is at 4045 East Avenue in Rochester.
