Redland soprano Mirusia has signed on as an ambassador of the not-for-profit nostalgic broadcast service, Silver Memories.
Mirusia said the goal of the program was to give the joy of music to aged care residents all over Australia.
Mirusia has achieved recognition as an international performer, singing many styles of music including opera, musical theatre, pop and jazz. She is also well versed on performing for aged care residents.
"My mother worked in aged care when I was younger, and she would often ask me to sing for the residents. From a very young age, I experienced the positive power of music on the aged, so I am beyond excited to be part of the Silver Memories community, and to offer my assistance as a volunteer at the Silver Memories studio," she said.
In November, Mirusia will perform a 60-minute live concert at various aged care facilities, showcasing music from the past.
Silver Memories general manager Gary Thorpe said it would be a thrill for residents to see Mirusia at their aged care homes.
"Most will only have seen her in André Rieu concerts on their TV," Mr Thorpe said.
Silver Memories is a specialised nostalgic music service providing reminiscence music therapy for older Australians helping to combat the severe loneliness experienced by older Australians, especially during COVID lockdowns.
"The service is designed to help residents spark conversations, feel re-connected, reminisce and recall memories, and improve quality of life," Mr Thorpe said.
He said the program was backed by research and clinical studies, proving it was highly-beneficial to older Australians, carers and aged care staff.
he unique broadcasting service is both advertisement and disruption free and includes a visual service. The service is especially needed during COVID restrictions and lockdowns to help elderly Australians feel socially-engaged and connected.
"Research shows that around one in four Australian seniors are affected by social isolation, and our service is proven to show a significant improvement in quality of life and depression for residents at aged care facilities," Mr Thorpe said.
The service is available nationwide via satellite installation or app and includes a range of resources, monthly-themed concerts and events, music requests and birthday call outs and a program guide.
It is supported by the Australian Medical Association and Alzheimer's Australia. More on silvermemories.com.au
