Compassion in nursing history: attending to the patient’s basic human needs with kindness

This chapter explores the Hearts & Minds&s; use of Compassionate Clowning specifically in relation to our Elderflowers performing arts programme for people with dementia. However, before focusing on the subject of Compassionate Clowning and playful compassion, an exploration on why compassion in dementia care is of the utmost importance, appears necessary. The chapter on the Compassionate Clowning explores how playful compassion can be implemented within assessment and long-term care by means of the Elderflowers family approach and the unexpected use of European style theatre clowning in this environment. It aims to highlight the positive impact this can have on residents, staff and relatives. The chapter also attempts to generalise some of its learning in regards to its concept and communication techniques, which may be considered useful for medical and nursing students, practicing health care professionals as well as artists working in a health care environment.