Sing-a-long live stream set to bring Christmas cheer to seniors

Aged-care provider RFBI is partnering with aged-care peak bodies Aged and Community Services Australia (ACSA) and Leading Age Services Australia (LASA) to bring a two-hour Christmas sing-a-long to older people across Australia.

The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has left many Australians, especially older people, experiencing isolation and loneliness. As Christmas approaches these feelings are likely to be amplified.

For this reason, RFBI is excited to announce its Big Christmas Sing-a-long, which will live stream on Thursday, 17 December from 1–3 pm (AEDT) at www.bigchristmassingalong.com.

Hosted by Studio 10 presenter and Ten News First national newsreader Narelda Jacobs, the show includes an impressive line-up of performers including Johnny Young, Normie Rowe, Kamahl, Ernie Dingo and many more.

As well as a fantastic line-up of celebrity artists, RFBI’s own Marjory Wood will also be performing.

Marjory — a Registered Nurse at RFBI Basin View Masonic Village — is also an experienced performer and talented singer who knows firsthand how hard this year has been for aged-care residents and the positive impact this show will have.

“This has been an incredibly hard 12 months for our residents,” Marjory said.

“In Basin View, our village came precariously close to bushfires last summer and since the pandemic, as with everyone else, our residents haven’t been able to see as much of their loved ones.

“Music and singing is a great way to connect people and it has such a powerful and positive effect on our residents. I sing to them as much as I can and they love it.

“The Big Christmas Sing-a-long is great initiative — I am extremely proud to be working for an organisation that does these kinds of things to improve the lives of older people and am really excited to be part of it.”

RFBI is promoting the show through all aged-care industry peak bodies in the hope that all older Australians will be able to tune in and enjoy the show. They are also inviting residents, families and aged-care workers to be part of the show by submitting a Christmas Message.

“The idea is to help restore older people’s lives and feelings in a positive way, with support and inspiration through this special event,” RFBI CEO Frank Price said.

“The wonderful thing is that everyone can join legendary entertainers in the broadcast.”

Image credit: ©stock.adobe.com/au/MIA Studio