I lead a church group that sings at 8 to 12 nursing homes for Christmas and Fourth of July. We've built a personal relationship with the staff members of most of the homes over the years, so things go along quite smoothly. There are occasional problems and misunderstandings, but that goes with the territory. Sometimes, homes have too many things happening, and just don't have time to accommodate another group - that's more likely if the woman who does our booking doesn't contact homes in time.

But overall, it has been a wonderful experience. I especially like the "memory care" homes. Even though these people may have Alzheimer's, they often remember all the words to every song - and they're not hesitant to sing along.

I am always careful not to talk down to my audiences. Maybe they have shortcomings, but usually they're intelligent enough to understand everything I'm intelligent enough to say. They often really like to hear the stories behind songs, and they like banter and humor and teasing and flirting and my blatant lies. I can't begin to tell you how much I enjoy singing at nursing and retirement homes. If you treat them like adults, they are so appreciative.

-Joe-