Finding Purpose at the Piano: How One Resident Gives Back to Her Senior Living Community

Residents at Atria on Roslyn Harbor have embraced a new tradition: coming together for after-dinner performances by a lifelong pianist – who just happens to be a fellow resident.

“One of my favorite things is to help people as much as I can,” says JoJo, who has been playing piano since early childhood. “Part of that, of course, is giving of oneself, which I think I do at the piano.”

JoJo’s relationship with music dates back to her youth in England, when her grandmother taught her piano scales at age 3. By 7, she was taking formal lessons and immersing herself in classical piano training. Over time, she expanded on this foundation by learning to play popular songs she heard on the radio by ear.

“Somewhere along the line, I started picking up songs that were in vogue,” she says.

Soon she was writing her own original compositions. And while music has always played an important role in her life, it took on renewed significance when she arrived at Atria on Roslyn Harbor and discovered a piano in the community’s living room.

A rediscovered passion

When JoJo and her husband first moved into Atria, she was focused on being his caretaker and rarely left their apartment. Staff gently nudged her to take breaks and explore what the community had to offer.

With that little bit of encouragement, JoJo started coming down to the community’s common areas more regularly. “The piano was very enticing,” she admits.

JoJo began leading music classes and playing piano for others. Almost as soon as she sat down and started playing, she attracted an audience.

“People would shout out songs for me to play,” she says. “The oldies, the wartime songs, the musicals. They’re very popular here.”

What started for JoJo as a rediscovered love for the piano has turned into a steady gig, with residents gathering after meals to hear her play. For JoJo, the best part of the experience is being able to give back to her community.

“This place gives me so much,” she says. “I have flowers on my balcony. There’s a movie twice a day. I love the food – sometimes they have fish and chips, which takes me back to England. So it’s nice being able to give something back just by doing something I love.”

The importance of purpose

Jojo’s story isn’t just heartwarming. Studies show that a sense of purpose is strongly linked to senior wellness.

Older adults who report a strong sense of purpose also have:

• Lower risk of cognitive decline and Alzheimer’s disease
• Reduced rates of depression and loneliness
• Better cardiovascular health
• Increased longevity

A sense of purpose doesn’t have to come from grand achievements. It often emerges from everyday acts of kindness, like helping others or sharing talents with friends. Psychologists note that as we age, we’re less concerned with personal accomplishments and more interested in finding meaning and contributing to our communities.

For JoJo, being able to play for her fellow residents has become one of the most rewarding parts of her day.

“I feel lucky to be here,” she says. “The people are wonderful, the staff is wonderful. I think it really is a wonderful place to be.”