A retired GP has been inspired to take up the piano after 60 years thanks to a new found friendship through the men’s club at his care home in Kew.

Ian Caie, 72, who worked at East Sheen Health Centre, moved into Cecil Court on Priory Road last November because he needed support for his dementia and schizophrenia. 

He was encouraged to join the home’s men’s club by manager, Fiona Saadat, where he met fellow resident and music lover, John Zucconi.

“I thought it would just be games of Scrabble,” said Ian “and that’s not really me, I’m only 72!  But we had a nice glass of wine and there was a piano in the room.  I haven’t played since I was 12 years old but I managed to knock out ‘Rock around the Clock’ with one finger.  I enjoyed myself immensely.”

After the club, which meets every Monday, John, who also has dementia, shared with Ian his collection of Chopin sheet music, which has inspired Ian to think seriously about playing again.

“For the first time in 60 years I’m thinking of having piano lessons,” he said.  “It might never have occurred to me if I hadn’t gone along to the club, and I might not have met John either so I’m thrilled.”

John, who’s originally from Italy, began his career in opera, working at the Glyndbourne opera house in East Sussex as a young man, and writing a libretto for the Welsh National Opera.  He went on to work as a chef in restaurants around London, but has never lost his love of the piano.

“The men’s club is great because we can talk freely without ladies around!” joked John.  “Music is a huge part of my life and it’s great to have someone to share that with.  I’m looking forward to being able to play with Ian.”

Although they are still a minority, the number of men living in residential care is increasing.   According to the most recent government figures, the number of men in care homes has gone up by around 15%.

The idea of the men’s club came about when home manager, Fiona Saadat, realised that the female residents had more activities organised towards their interests.

“Our male residents live on different floors in Cecil Court and the club brings them together,” Fiona said. 
“It’s an opportunity for them to talk about things that interest them like sport, their military service and even their grandchildren.

“Many of our male residents are highly intelligent men who want to be active and stimulated,” said Fiona. 
“They speak several languages, enjoy word games as well as the chance to just be with each other.”

The men also play cards, do some gardening together or go to the pub for lunch and a pint of beer.  The Club is supported by the home’s male staff.  Stefan Nicu, acting deputy manager, says spending time with each other has made some of them men more confident to take part in activities.

“One of our residents, Patrick, is usually very quiet but when he comes to the Club he will chat with the others.   It’s also an important time for the men to reminisce which has great benefits for their wellbeing.  They can relate to each other’s experiences in a way they often can’t do with the women here.”

Cecil Court, managed by C&C, provides personal care for up to 45 residents, including 11 with dementia care needs. 

Manager, Fiona Saadat, was recently named ‘Care Innovator’ at the Great British Care Awards in London for her trial of autobiographical films to improve the quality of life for residents with dementia.
“We’re looking forward to organising piano lessons for Ian,” said Fiona.  “Moving into residential care is not an ending, for Ian it’s a whole new beginning and we’re thrilled we can help him with that.”

Article supplied by Lisa Pettifer