Musical Entertainment and the elderly in care homes. The Truth.
I have been entertaining in care homes for over five years. I have utilised my musical knowledge and skills, coupled with my therapy background, my in depth knowledge of dementia and the care home industry at senior management level.
I have noticed that care home residents get little or no therapeutic benefit from a Singer/entertainer, no matter how skilled they are, if they turn up sing a few songs, accompanied by keyboard or guitar. It is neither memorable nor beneficial to the well being of the care home resident, especially dementia residents.
I have found that you don't need to be the greatest instrumentalist or singer. All it needs is a little bit of thought and insider knowledge to be a channel for therapeutic well-being. The reason I am chosen to return time after time is:
1. The set list: Does each song mean something to the resident?
2. Being Personable and engaging.
3. My knowledge and ability to put into practice validation, reminiscence and music therapy.
Performing in care homes is not the most lucrative way of making money, not that you are doing it for profit. Many care homes rely on donations to their comfort funds or activities funds, usually petty cash only. Therefore you should not expect high fees usually between £30 and £80.