An exploratory study of carers and care staff perspectives of silver memories - a unique radio program for older people

The aim of this evaluation was to ascertain the perspectives of both carers of older people and residential care staff regarding the impact of a new radio program, Silver Memories, on the behavior and well-being of older listeners, as well as their opinions regarding the program's quality and appeal. Silver Memories is a unique radio service designed for the older listener that broadcasts music and programs from the 1920s to the 1950s. The program first aired in Brisbane, Australia, in April 2008. Nine carers of older people and 15 care staff from 11 residential aged care facilities in which Silver Memories had been introduced for a 3-month trial period were interviewed to obtain their views regarding the quality of the program and its impact on older listeners. The majority of respondents thought that listening to Silver Memories positively influenced the well-being, morale, and behavior of older listeners very much or greatly. Relaxation was the most frequently reported benefit and older listeners with dementia appeared to receive the greatest benefit. The friendliness and quality of the program were also rated highly. It was concluded that old-time music and programs such as those broadcast by Silver Memories appear to be beneficial for older people. © Taylor & Francis Group, LLC