It’s now been a year since I started visiting the residents at Rowden House, a residential home for the elderly. At first it was a bit awkward as I didn’t know any of the residents and I was uncertain of how to talk to them and what about, so I took my saxophone in and have played every time ever since. I go in most weeks, and they sing along to their favourite songs. It’s strange how most can remember all of the words to the songs, but can’t remember a conversation you’ve had a few minutes before. Most of them are women, most likely in their 90s, who, as well as memory problems often walk with Zimmer frames or sticks. They appear to be well cared for and happy there, which is nice to see especially due to articles I have recently read in the paper about poor care in homes for the elderly. After a year, they now know me well and are very pleased to see me with my saxophone (even the cat!).
