Most of the time, I run over 15 to 25 minutes, but I always ask the AD if that's OK. Most say "Play as long as you want - they love you and it doesn't cost us any more money if you play longer."

If you are playing in a dining room, there are often time constraints because the staff has to get the room ready for the next meal. If you're playing in an activities room, which is often the case, it's usually not a problem. I'm an old fart, so more often than not, I'm having as much or more fun than they are. It all depends on the circumstances.

As for the comparison between Assisted Living and Nursing Home facilities, most of the residents in the Assisted Living facilities here are somewhat ambulatory and able to get around with walkers or canes. Very few are in wheel chairs, and none are in beds. The nursing home residents are often brought to the activities rooms in wheel chairs, and some are in wheeled recliners. Never had any in beds.

Tony, I've said this many times, but I'll say it again - the Assisted Living, Nursing Home, senior center and retirement community circuit is the best, and most rewarding job I've ever had in my life. Sometimes it can be hard work, but most of the time the audiences are wonderful people that have just outlived their bodies. They love the music, they love to have fun, they're grateful, and the pay is one Hell of a lot better than it ever was when I was doing the nite-clubs, restaurants, country clubs, and even private parties.

Good luck, and I sincerely hope you get into this aspect of entertainment before you get too old to lug the gear around.

Gary