"The Two Teabags": Bringing Nostalgia and Connection to Aged Care
Marina Lee-Warner and Julie Joy, entertainers from the New South Wales Upper Hunter, have developed an original show called "The Two Teabags" specifically for aged care audiences. The duo has been performing this show, which features Australiana references, across the Upper Hunter.
Expanding Reach to Combat Loneliness
Lee-Warner and Joy have received a Create NSW grant, enabling them to expand the show's reach.
Lee-Warner, who has a background in aged care, expressed that the initiative aims to combat loneliness among aged care residents.
A 2021 Royal Commission report indicated that up to 40 percent of aged care residents do not receive visitors.
A Journey Through Memory and Nostalgia
The show features Lee-Warner as Marj, a cleaner reminiscing about her past, and Joy as Shirl, a tea lady with a trolley of nostalgic items. Props such as a rabbit trap are incorporated to stimulate memory and conversation among residents.
Joy, also with an aged care background, stated the play is designed to engage all residents, including those with cognitive decline, by fostering conversation and reminiscence.
Positive Feedback and Therapeutic Benefits
Performances have received positive feedback from aged care facility managers, noting the show's unique ability to connect with residents through generational references.
The show also includes sing-alongs to classic songs like "Waltzing Matilda" and chair dancing, utilizing music and movement as therapeutic elements.
Joy noted that music can facilitate connections in the brain, even for individuals with speech impairments.
Both Lee-Warner and Joy have expressed satisfaction with their involvement in the project.