I was a Public Health Doctor and Epidemiologist who worked for agencies such as UNICEF, Universities and Governments in low-income countries in emergencies, nutrition, maternal and child health, surveys, and research.
On retirement, aged 70 in 2006. I returned to Australia and started making videos and presentations on health-related issues, but with no particular purpose. A few years ago, at a retreat, I met an amazing person who became my (tor)mentor! She made me realize it was OK to be different. She also encouraged me to explore my core values, which identified me as a ‘stand-up comedian’. I realized I love to sing and make people smile, which lead to the program ‘SingwithFred’.
I like to help people communicate through song with loved ones, especially those in Aged Care and Nursing Homes, where singing is encouraged as part of the program for residents. Happiness and memory can be rekindled by song. Music Therapists form a recognised part of health care for the aged, at-risk groups and those with mental Illness.
Recently, I have conducted meetings over Zoom. My intent is to help in the choice, content, delivery, timing and wording of their songs, provide ongoing follow-up for recipients to ensure progress in their efforts and invite celebrities to show ways in which they can use song to help themselves and loved ones. My aim is to enrol 100 people in 6-12 months leading to a major event.
‘SingwithFred’ offers an added dimension both in the preventive and therapeutic aspects of therapy for mental health using family and friends with their elderly relatives. I plan an evaluation in a pilot clinical trial including those using current therapy matched by setting and location.
In time, this research will seek funding, involving an academic institution with special reference to interested doctors and healthcare therapists.
