Doctor Clown Association Expands Emotional Support to Seniors at Liepāja Hospital

The association “Dr. Klauns” plans to expand its activities at Liepāja Regional Hospital by introducing a new program to offer emotional support to senior patients. Until now, the doctor clowns regularly visited the General Children's Disease Department, but support will now be extended to the Inpatient Physical Therapy Rehabilitation Department, Care Department, and Neurology Department.

Andris Vistiņš, a board member of the hospital, emphasizes that emotional support is an essential part of comprehensive care. The hospital already runs several initiatives, such as volunteer readings and Hospiss LV volunteer involvement, and the “Dr. Klauns” program organically complements this system.

To prepare for work with seniors, the association’s representatives completed a special training program covering psychology, gerontology, and communication with people suffering from dementia, memory disorders, or long-term hospitalization. The program was developed and is led by clinical psychologist, art, dance, and movement therapist Irīna Jemeļjanova.

Marianna Milovska, head of the “Dr. Klauns” association, explains that the approach to working with children and seniors differs. “Our goal is to create an environment where a person feels heard, respected, and can safely engage in conversation or a shared moment. Humor here is not an end in itself – it is one way to build contact and provide emotional support,” says Milovska.

During the meeting with the head nurses, practical issues regarding the program’s implementation were discussed. After the preparatory phase is completed, regular visits by the doctor clowns to the selected departments are planned.