Nursing Home Programs
The biggest problem I had when I first began doing nursing home programs was dealing with a completely different type of response. Where most venues I present shows at I have a very interactive and loud audience.....with nursing home residents you sometimes wonder if "anybody is home." I think it takes a strong clown to be able to keep up the energy of the show and your character under these cirmstances. Depending on the group, you may not receive much if any response to your funnies, etc. But know that you ARE making a difference and they ARE enjoying you each and every minute.
Before and after the show I like interacting one on one with residents. When doing this I try to never look "down" on them. Either pull a chair up next to them and sit by them or simply drop to one knee. Close eye contact is imperative with patients with memory problems.
Smile a lot and giggle or laugh frequently. Laughter is CONTAGIOUS and they need it so much! It's an emotion that is hard to find in many nursing homes.
Good luck and have FUN!!!!!
Blessings,
Sparky
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