Valentine’s Day event brings joy to Kraaifontein seniors

Residents of KSE Kraaifontein Tehuis, an old-age home based in Scottsville, were treated to a special Valentine’s Day music programme on Friday, February 13, ahead of the annual celebration of love.

The initiative was organised by Warrant Officer Louise Strydom, social crime prevention officer at Kraaifontein Police Station, who said she wanted to bring a message of love and appreciation to the elderly residents.

“I felt I wanted to do something at the Scottsville old age home for the seniors because it’s the month of love. Although Valentine’s Day is only tomorrow, I wanted to bring the love to the house,” she said.

The programme featured performers, including the piano and marimba music from the Stellenbosch-based Lindelani Child and Youth Care Centre, whose instrumental music was warmly received by residents. The Scottsville High School choir also performed, adding to the celebratory atmosphere.

“We were fortunate to have a marimba. The crowd loved the instruments. The local performers from the high school choir also blessed us,” said Warrant Officer Strydom.

Ward 111 councillor Brenda Hansen attended the event and shared a message of appreciation for the elderly.

“Today, we are celebrating the month of love with our seniors. It is an excellent idea because we need to recognise our seniors. They are the people who fought for us many years ago, and today we are giving them recognition.”

She also thanked the police for taking time out of their duties to support the community initiative.

For the elderly residents, who were also treated to chocolates, the music and interaction provided a welcome break from daily challenges.

Beverly Swart, who has been living at the home for four and a half years, described the programme as uplifting.

“We were really blessed to have them come in with the amazing music and programme they gave us. They showed us that they truly care about elderly people.”

Ms Swart said life at the home can be emotionally difficult, particularly for residents living alongside those affected by Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.

“It’s not a very easy situation living here. So when we had that music, it calmed you and made you feel happy and vibrant and full of life again,” she said.

Warrant Officer Strydom often partners with community organisations and schools to host events that strengthen relationships within the Kraaifontein community.

She said the seniors hold an important place in society.

“They are there for a reason - to guide and support us because they have knowledge and experience,” she said.

Valentine’s Day, celebrated annually on February 14, is a global festival dedicated to expressing romantic love, friendship, and admiration through gifts, cards, and flowers.

Find Northern News on TikTok and Instagram @ccmonlineza.