Fringe festival tackles loneliness and isolation in aged care

The Southern Cross Care Community Foundation has kicked off a tour of 16 residential care homes across Adelaide and surrounding regions, bringing the excitement of the Fringe Festival directly to aged care residents who would otherwise miss out.

Residential aged care residents are generally challenged to attend Fringe events which the broader Adelaide community takes for granted.

So when the Adelaide Fringe rolls around each year, they miss out completely on the fun and excitement, as well as the sense of belonging that Fringe shows can foster.

That’s why the Southern Cross Care Community Foundation is dedicated to bringing some of the best talents of the Fringe right into the homes run by Southern Cross Care. Each matinee performance is free for residents, thanks to the generosity of the donors and corporate sponsors who support the Southern Cross Care Community Foundation.

This year, there is a 70s-themed show, Rhythm & Razzle, which features music, tricks and comedy that engages the audience. Residents not only watch the show but are encouraged to participate in the singing and choreography.

Southern Cross Care Chief Executive Officer David Moran said the positive impact of the shows was immeasurable. “It’s heartwarming to see the smiles on residents’ faces, to see them clapping and waving along and having a good laugh together,” Mr Moran said.

“Every show is a highlight of the year for our residents and the wellbeing benefits of this kind of engaging shared activity are obvious – they talk about it for weeks afterwards.

“Loneliness and isolation are serious health issues facing older Australians. That’s why programs like this are so important for the wellbeing of our valued residents.

“We are so grateful for our generous Community Foundation sponsors and donors for making this important program possible and for helping us to tackle loneliness and isolation in our community.”

The shows will continue throughout March, in addition to a large two-hour matinee performance at The Regal Theatre on 11 March for Southern Cross Care’s Retirement Village residents as well as their Health & Fitness and Home Care clients.

The tour will be extended to Southern Cross Care’s communities in Darwin and Victoria later in the year.

For more information visit the Southern Cross Care Community Foundation.

Southern Cross Care (SA, NT & VIC) is a CHA Member