Getting a new Groove Help

[Snickers]

I'm not a new clown, clowned for about 8 years, quit 5 years ago due to health issues. I would like to get back into clowning however, things have changed, like my body. I put on my costume a couple of times in the past months, but I feel strange, have lost my edge. Due to my health issues, I can no longer run, jump, do exeraggerated movements, I now walk like a lean to, should get a cane, and probably will, walking any distance is too fatiguing. Can't juggle anymore. Magic, I'm not fast anymore, hands have become clumsy. I've changed my make up so I look more au natural with some exeraggerated markings, that part is working. Even my voice, no longer comes out naturally loud, I felt like I was shouting my "hello", or focing it out, I thought only boys voices changed, now I am old gal, with an old voice. Help - any suggestions? I still want to clown, but it will be more geared toward special appearances, like visiting sick people on recommendations of friends, or stop in to say "hi" at a birthday party. I don't have an act any more and don't think I can create a new one, it's time for a whole new venue. Just an old babe trying to bring a smile where she can. How does one get re-invented? Even my costume is tight, dieting will retify that little problem. Are there any elders out there still clowning that have had to re-invent to compensate for an aging slower moving body, along with a slower moving mind but I still possess some spirit to want to get up and go, just have a bit of trouble convincing the old bode it still has some potential, and we need to make the best of what I've got left to work with. Any body older doing this kind of single one act clowning to spread a bit of cheer here and there? Thanks.
Clickers

[Fitzwilly]

Well let me be the first to welcome you back to the Forum Snickers/Clickers.

Clowning in hospitals and retirement homes may be right up your alley. These are people who really appreciate someone spending time with them, there is no pressure to be loud, move fast or keep up with 50 four year olds. There are many "caring clowns" out there who find this very satisfying.

[Mr. Dazzle]

Nursing homes would be perfect for you. I love going and spending time with the residents at our local nursing home. I really enjoy going as my Richard Handsome character because I feel that he can relate more to the residents with his stories and anecdotes. But a lot of the time people just enjoy sitting down with someone and talking. Especially if they don't get visitors very often.

[Bumbles]

Nursing homes are a great place to go, I love to see the smiles on the peoples faces when you come in.

[Mrs. Bunny]

It's hard to have to change most of your techniques due to age, illness, etc. It's doubly hard when all you see is how you used to be. But there is still a lot of good we can do no matter what the situation. There are a lot of seniors, hospice or retired people sitting around wishing someone would care enough to visit them. It's almost an untapped market. Hit the yellow pages, check with friends, family or churches. Find out who's been sick and get your new clown gear on and give them a visit. You only need to visit for about 15 mins. Or you can call them on the days that you're not feeling up to going out. It doesn't take long to show love or brighten someone's day. I was injured on the job and was in constant pain. I couldn't go like I used to and became quite depressed. Then I realized that there are others who may be sick and stuck in the house, too, so I started calling people. Great things began to happen for me and them. I didn't feel useless anymore and they felt someone cared! Be encouraged. There's still a lot of clown in you. Go on an use it, girl!

[saphireSue]

Nursing homes are great, but don't forget about adult day care, senior centers and hospice. People on Hospice generally are expected to live about 6 months or less, but they as well as their families can use the stress relief and enjoy visits, if interested contact you local hospice group and ask about volunteering.

also check into group homes, [like those with Down's Syndrome]They are so sweet, and they love the attention, and they need you to be patient and take time with them, so going slower for them is better.

[Sir Toony Van Dukes]

Snickers, I think that it is great that you still want to clown around. Do what comes natural and feels comfortable. Clowns don't have to be good at magic, sometimes that is even more fun. As the others have already said, there is a good need for people to visit the sick and elderly.

Maybe you would consider offering classes to others looking to become a clown. I am sure that with 8 years of experience that you have some valuable ideas that you could share.

I wish you luck as you get back into clowning.