Belly Dancers: appropriate entertainment for LTC residents?

[Born2BWild]

We like to try to offer the residents variety as far as entertainment goes. We've had musical acts, movie days, bingo, church (and more church), reminiscing days, scrapbook days, pie days...I belly dance as a hobby and am wondering if it would be a good idea to suggest that my troup come and perform? I think it would be neat to lay some oriental rugs on the floor to dance on. It seems like the colorful costumes and music and dancing could be stimulating for the old folks. I haven't brought the idea up because I wouldn't want to be embarrassed if someone didn't think the sensual costumes and moves would be "appropriate." Though, in spite of cartoons of snowmen and big paper snowflakes decorating the halls these are adults, after all.

Good idea? Or too "hoochie coochie" for the older crowd?

[Batman25]

Go for it. I think they'd enjoy it. And you could even get them involved by doing some of the moves to the best of their ability. They are grown adults and I bet many will love it. Getting in some other dancers i.e. tap, ballroom, etc. could be fun for them too.

[erroridiot]

I had a spunky patient in her 80's with memory loss demonstrate an excellent Hula Dance for me.

She learned this in her day care activities and she was quite a show off with her skill. It is a good activity for balance, memory, coordination and the human spirit.

I also knew a lady in her 70's who attended her first "strip" show with some family members and said the dancers were very talented and flexible with amazing bodies! She said she would go to a strip show again if she could.

Ask each resident if they are interested. If they are interested they can attend, if not they can opt out or have an alternative activity available for those who decline.

[SuesquatchRN, BSN, RN]

Why not? They're old, not dead. My folks LOVE it when I dance or sing. Happy leads to more happy.

[makes needs known]

I think they will love it, especially the men. Give lessons to the ladies. I bet there will be lots of smiles!!

[swirlything]

I have performed as a bellydancer at LTC's. When the entertainment directors at LTCs find out I have a bellydance troupe, the instantly ask me if we will come and do a show for them. So, I say to go for it!