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An older man with glasses plays an old wooden upright piano while a fluffy tuxedo cat sits beside him on the bench. 26 / 37

Grandpa Sat Down at the Old Upright Piano and Found He Had Company

AI imagetuxedo catpianoseniors and pets

The upright piano has seen decades of use. Its wood is nicked and warm-toned, its keys slightly yellowed, and its top is piled with a basket of folded sweaters and a jumble of keepsakes. Grandpa sits at the keyboard in his glasses and vest, fingers spread over the keys, wearing a gentle, faraway smile as he plays a tune he probably learned long ago. Sharing the bench, Domino sits tall and fluffy, head tilted up toward him, ears pointed forward as if he's listening for his favorite part.

Playing an instrument is a rewarding activity at any age, and many older adults return to music in retirement. It keeps the hands nimble, the mind engaged, and can lift the mood on a gray afternoon. Pets often seem to enjoy being near it, too, as long as the volume stays comfortable. Cats have sensitive hearing, so loud or sharp sounds may send them looking for a quieter room, while soft, steady melodies tend to go over better. Let your cat choose whether to stay close or wander off. If your cat likes to sit on the bench, you've earned a very loyal audience.

Domino has clearly claimed his half of the bench and has no intention of giving it up. He might not request encores, but he hasn't left yet, and that's a strong review.

Old pianos and old friends have something in common: they only get better with time.

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