News

The holiday season brings a special kind of magic to Lakeland’s senior living communities. Beyond the festive decorations and scheduled activities that everyone expects, there’s a whole world of unexpected treasures waiting to be discovered. These are the little touches that transform a residential facility into a true community – the kind of special features that rarely make it into the brochures but often make all the difference in daily life.

Those Special Gathering Spaces You Won’t Find on the Tour

Let’s talk about something the marketing team probably won’t highlight – those perfectly positioned alcoves and tucked-away lounges where the real community happens. Every great Lakeland retirement community has them, though you might need to venture beyond the standard tour route to find them.

The best communities in Lakeland have these magical spots where residents naturally gather each morning for coffee or each afternoon for impromptu card games. Often it’s a sunny corner with comfortable seating arranged just right for conversation, or perhaps a quiet nook with a stunning view of swans gliding by. These spaces aren’t necessarily the most elaborate or expensive areas in the community, but they’ve got something special – perfect lighting, comfortable seating arranged for actual conversation (not just for show), and that indefinable quality that just makes people want to linger.

During your next visit to a Lakeland senior living community, watch where current residents actually spend their time. That cozy reading corner where three or four residents are always chatting? The sunroom where a group gathers for morning coffee? These are the spots that transform a facility from a place to live into a place to belong.

The Staff Members Who Remember the Little Things

Here’s something worth its weight in gold: staff members who truly notice and remember the small details that make residents feel seen and valued.

These communities have maintenance team members who remember which residents like knock-knock jokes, dining staff who know which residents prefer to eat earlier or later than scheduled mealtimes, and wellness coordinators who notice when someone’s normal patterns change. It’s impossible to mandate this level of personalized attention in an employee handbook – it comes from a culture that values relationships over tasks.

When touring communities, pay attention to how staff interact with current residents. Do they call residents by name? Do they mention preferences or past conversations? These small indicators speak volumes about the community’s genuine commitment to personalized care.

Those Unexpected Flexibility Points

The secret sauce of truly exceptional Lakeland senior living? Flexibility where it really counts.

While every community needs policies and schedules to function smoothly, the best ones build in thoughtful flexibility around the aspects of daily life that matter most to residents. Maybe it’s extended or flexible dining hours that accommodate different preferences and routines. Perhaps it’s transportation services that go beyond the standard shopping trips to include spontaneous outings to Lake Mirror concerts or Cleveland Heights Golf Course.

Some Lakeland communities offer incredible flexibility with living space personalization – allowing residents to truly make their space their own with paint colors, fixture changes, or custom built-ins that reflect their personal style. Others focus their flexibility on activity programming, creating frameworks that allow resident-led interest groups to flourish alongside planned events.

This kind of thoughtful flexibility doesn’t mean chaos or a lack of structure. Rather, it represents a deep understanding that honoring individual preferences and routines contributes enormously to quality of life and sense of autonomy.

The Connections to the Broader Lakeland Community

The most vibrant senior living communities in Lakeland don’t exist as islands – they’re deeply connected to the wider community in meaningful ways.

Look for communities that maintain active partnerships with local organizations like the Polk Museum of Art, Florida Southern College, or Lakeland’s thriving downtown business district. These connections create opportunities for residents to remain engaged with the broader community they’ve been part of for years.

The best communities might host local school choirs for performances, partner with nearby restaurants for special dining events, or organize regular outings to Lakeland favorites like the Saturday Farmers Market at Lake Mirror. Some even create volunteer opportunities that allow residents to contribute their wisdom and talents to local causes.

These community connections provide much more than entertainment – they offer residents a continued sense of belonging to the Lakeland community they love, opportunities for intergenerational interaction, and the stimulation of new experiences and relationships.

Resident-Led Innovation

Here’s something truly special to watch for: communities where residents drive meaningful innovation and improvement.

In the most dynamic Lakeland senior living environments, you’ll find formal and informal channels for residents to shape their community. This might look like resident committees with real decision-making power, suggestion systems that actually result in changes, or staff who actively seek resident input before making adjustments to programs or services.

The results of this resident-driven approach can be truly remarkable. One Lakeland community completely revamped its fitness program based on resident feedback, resulting in classes tailored specifically to what residents wanted rather than generic offerings. Another transformed an underused formal dining room into a more casual bistro space after residents expressed a preference for more relaxed dining options.

This collaborative approach creates communities that continuously evolve to meet the changing needs and preferences of their residents, rather than sticking rigidly to outdated models or assumptions about what seniors want.

Finding These Hidden Gems

How do you discover these extraordinary features that rarely make it into the marketing materials? It takes a slightly different approach to your search.

Spend time in communities beyond the formal tour. Ask to join residents for a meal or attend an activity. Strike up conversations with current residents about what they love most about living there – their answers might surprise you. Request to visit at different times of day to see how the community functions throughout a typical day, not just during prime visiting hours.

Pay attention to the small moments – staff stopping to chat with residents, residents helping one another, the general atmosphere in common areas. Ask specific questions about how the community supports individual preferences and choices. Inquire about how resident feedback is gathered and implemented.

The communities that welcome this deeper exploration are often the ones with the most wonderful hidden gems to discover.

The Joy of Finding Your Perfect Fit

The search for the right senior living community can sometimes feel overwhelming, but discovering these hidden gems can transform it into a joy-filled journey of exploration. When you find that perfect Lakeland community – the one with that special gathering place that feels immediately comfortable, staff who notice the little things, flexibility around what matters most, strong community connections, and residents who help shape their environment – you’ll know it.

That feeling of “this is it” comes not from the most expensive amenities or the newest facilities, but from these deeper elements that create a genuine sense of belonging and joy. And that feeling is absolutely worth searching for – because the right senior living community doesn’t just provide a place to live; it offers a place to thrive.

For those looking into senior living options in Lakeland, Westminster Winter Park is worth checking out. They’re a not-for-profit in senior care that aligns with many of the better approaches mentioned above. You can find more at https://westminstercommunitiesfl.org/ or elsewhere on this site.

You’ve earned this freedom.

After years of commuting, taking care of a suburban property, and building our lives around other people’s lives, it’s time for a new approach. Something vibrant. Something that puts the world right outside your door.

Living in Lakeland requires urban living is just what you need.

The Suburban-Urban Sweet Spot

Stop thinking that you know what “city living” means.

Lakeland offers a unique experience of urban living without the overwhelming scale of traditional cities. There are no overwhelming crowds or impossible traffic. Here, you’ll find charming, walkable neighborhoods with easy access to plenty of activity and peace.

It’s city living without the hassle. Urban convenience without the chaos.

Lakeland is very good for seniors who want independence without being overwhelmed. Streets are navigable. Cultural venues are approachable. This speed is appropriate for adventurers and those who take things slowly.

He gets urban buzz designed specifically for pleasure rather than pain.

Freedom from Car Dependency

Do you recall a time when everyone drove? Going anywhere was no big deal back then, was it? Getting in the car while dwelling and drive an errand wasn’t anything out of the ordinary.

Living in Lakeland frees you from the hassle.

Many activity can be done by walking as community for seniors is well-designed in the city and adjoining place. Need groceries? There’s probably a market within a few blocks. Meeting friends for coffee? The walk there becomes part of the pleasure. Medical appointment? Many businesses set up shop especially to serve downtowners.

By not driving there, any problems that might arise from that disappear! It makes part of your life exercise and part of the experience. A simple errand is a chance to feel the sun on your face, say hi to the neighbors, and discover something new.

And for destinations beyond walking distance? You can catch a ride or a community shuttle or a public transit that is accessible.

Cultural Richness at Your Doorstep

City living allows people to experience culture in a way the suburbs can’t. Lakeland’s downtown area is a perfect example

Art galleries feature rotating exhibitions. The performance venues stretch from classical music to contemporary theatre. Educational institutions offer lectures and classes. Restaurants showcase culinary creativity.

All this within easy reach of your residence.

This cultural richness allows for planned and unplanned outings at any time. You may go with your tickets for one event, but that does not stop you from enjoying the music of a street artist or an art installation on your way.

A lot of seniors find that mixture of planned and unexpected cultural engagement to create ideal cognitive stimulation – structured enough to provide security but varied enough to keep things interesting and exciting.

Social Connection Happens Naturally

One underappreciated aspect of urban living? The way it facilitates natural social interactions.

Urban living helps humans interact with each other at every corner. Unlike suburbia, cities have “third places.” These are places where communities form that are not home or work. Coffee shops where regulars gather each morning. Benches in parks where the same chess players meet every afternoon. Farmers markets where vendors greet repeat customers by name.

These spots allow people to communicate without any pressure. You can interact as much or as little as you like on any day. In such places, the regularity creates the space for socialising often enough that relationships develop naturally over time. Thus, a community develops with little forced active participation.

For seniors moving to new homes, this natural socialization is valuable as it provides connection without pressure, and community without obligation.

Practical Conveniences Matter

While the cultural opportunities and social connections have their benefits, let’s not forget the practical advantages of urban senior living in Lakeland.

You can position senior housing in a city location because the urban community has a concentration of seniors. Drug stores make sure access and frequently deliver. To cater to the taste of local community stores localize their products.

Daily quality of life is enhanced by these pragmatic considerations that may seem rather unexciting as compared to culture.
It is a great peace of mind to be able to readily access what you need without complicated logistics.

Design That Supports Independence

Lakeland’s vibrant senior housing communities appeal to the design that supports independence.

Within the homes, you’ll see thoughtful elements like single-level living, reachable bathrooms and kitchens combining safety with ease of use. The common areas merge privacy with opportunities for interaction. The building security gives you peace of mind without being institutional.

Lakeland, besides the unique communities, is improving age-friendly urban design. Pedestrian crossings allow adequate crossing time. Public seating appears at strategic intervals. Signage considers visibility and clarity.

These design elements allow people to age without loss of their independence.

The Financial Equation

City life is sometimes seen to be crammed with a lot of costs. But the cost of urban senior living options in Lakeland may surprise you.

If you consider the lower transport cost and possibly smaller living space to care for, along with bundled services in most senior communities, the cost often becomes quite comparable. Many people discover that paying a little extra for location is well worth the premium.

In addition, it is beneficial for the suppliers because a rich variety of options in one place encourages healthy competition.

Maintaining Wellness in an Urban Setting

Senior communities formal programs are better complemented by holistic wellness options made available in the city.

Think morning tai chi groups in public parks. Walking clubs that investigate diverse city neighborhoods every week. Farmers markets providing access to fresh, local produce. Community gardens help you grow vegetables with your neighbors.

Activities in your town like these can bring you three great things – physical exercise, social connection and engagement with the larger community. And to grow old, you need all three.

Is Urban Independent Living Right for You?

Your ideal living situation may differ greatly from others. Interested in country life would, if it were possible.

Value cultural experiences and educational opportunities.
Enjoy spontaneous social interactions.
Prefer walking to driving whenever possible.
Appreciate having services and amenities within easy reach.
Enjoy the vibe in venues like a cafe, park or market.

Living in the city isn’t a big deal, but Lakeland is so small that it’s easy to adjust. For many, it simplifies rather than complicates life and removes barriers that kept them from doing things somewhere else.

Your Next Chapter, Your Choice

In essence, opting for city-based independent living is a liberated choice regarding how you would like to live your retirement.

You’re not letting the circumstances determine where you live, but rather you are choosing an environment that reflects your values, preferences, and lifestyle. You’re choosing vibrance, connection, and convenience. You’re choosing a setting that makes independence not just possible, but really pleasurable.

The city-like choices available in Lakeland create the ideal setting for seniors, as they offer the conveniences of urban living designed for older citizens.

The freedom you’ve earned awaits just outside your door.

Westminster Communities of Florida® is a faith-based not-for-profit service that began in 1954. It has over 7,000 residents in 22 communities.

Learn more at https://westminstercommunitiesfl.org/.

The past isn’t really past in Lakeland.

It’s alive in the architecture. Whispered in the rustling leaves of century-old oak trees. Followed by museums and historical societies that keep stories alive.

And for you? A lot more than merely fascinating details about the past lies in this rich history. Gaining a deeper understanding of where we fit into the community– that is what history does for us, Writes Roger A. Bruns A Worked in ‘A History of America in 50 Objects.

Finding Your Place in Time

It’s comforting to understand when and how your home was built. Connecting with the local heritage fosters a feeling of belonging that is bigger than your own timeline. Whether you’re Lakelandian or visiting the charming city for the first time.

You become part of a great ongoing story – where your chapter is just as meaningful as those that came before.

The connection to place has a connection to the past. Studies show that taking part in culture improve seniors’ lives in multiple ways, in the ‘normal’ life. Learning history offers many benefits to people that include cognitive stimulation, social connection, and sense of purpose.

Lakeland makes it exceptionally easy to enjoy.

Beyond Museums: Living History Experiences

Museums certainly have their place. Those climate controlled spaces that preserve artifacts behind glass serve a purpose.

But Lakeland’s takes it one step further than all that.

Historic districts’ walking tours let you feel the history beneath your feet. Buildings refurbished to host modern businesses create delightful juxtapositions. Festivals celebrate milestones with special events that excite and excite all five senses.

You remember this as much as you smell the spices or hear the music or make the thing you will take home.

For example, look at the buildings beside Lake Mirror. The Mediterranean and Art Deco styles did not arise from nothing. Lakeland wasn’t just being put together slap-dash. There were economic booms at play, other cultural influences, and city planning, too. There are so many things to learn by walking around town!

Social Connection Through Shared History

When enjoyed together, history becomes more meaningful.

History Buffs Meet Regularly in Lakeland to Explore the Illustration of Something in Lakeland. Some focus on buildings built a long time ago, others on cultural traditions or significant historic events.

These meetings help build a sense of community around a shared interest. Newer residents meet established locals. Stories get exchanged. Friendships form.

For you, these opportunities connect you with like-minded people and give you a chance to network without pressure. Historical discussions make for natural conversation starters and provide common ground to build on, unlike other social situations that might feel forced or awkward.

Many senior living places organize outings to historical sites, so you can look forward to exploring them with people who have similar interests.

From Observers to Keepers of History

Lakeland outings to historic sites. Can inspire interaction. The opportunity to change from a passive observer to an active participant.

Your life experience and memories matter. The changes you’ve witnessed happening in the world; having seen and lived through historical events, these are very important.

All over Lakeland, oral history projects, memoir writing workshops, and history discussion groups are looking for seniors. The neighbourhoods that have changed, the traditions that have evolved, or the momentous community events experienced are primary source material which enhance community understanding.

This role as history keeper offers profound purpose. Your not just reading the past, you are saving it for the future.

History as Cognitive Exercise

Besides social and emotional benefits, history gives our brain a great workout.

Learning about different historical contexts will stimulate the brain in many ways simultaneously. You’re taking in new information, linking events together, picturing a different time, and thinking critically about what happened.

This helps keep your mind agile and build cognitive reserve, the buffer that sustains your brain as it compensates and adapts with age.

Unlike other training that feels like work, historical exploration never gets boring as it is naturally captivating. You get this mental workout almost without even noticing it because diving into history is so rarely boring.

Seasonal Connections to Heritage

The chances to engage with Lakeland’s history change with the seasons.

Heritage garden tours in spring offer a chance to learn about historic gardening practices while enjoying fabulous blooms. During summer evenings, historical walking tours are organized in a way to see the sunset. Autumn festivals often include historical themes and demonstrations of traditional crafts. The winter holidays show how traditions have changed over decades.

You will discover something new each season, no matter how long you’ve lived here.

Practical Ways to Connect with Lakeland’s Heritage

Ready to explore Lakeland’s rich historical offerings? Consider these starting points.

You can choose guided walking tours or transportation (coach’s) tours per your physically ability.
Becoming a member of a historical society has many benefits.
Your local library may have resources on local history available nowhere else.
Many community colleges offer discounts for seniors on local history classes.
There are many opportunities to volunteer greeter and tour guide for museums and historical sites.

Start with whichever format is comfortable for you. Then branch out as you gain interest.

Many senior living communities work with institutions that keep the past alive, making it easy to access special programs or arrange visits as a group. Ask their activity directors about any interesting historical events coming up to help you plan.

The Perfect Backdrop for Your Next Chapter

In the end, Lakeland’s rich history makes for exceptional senior living. The layers of history present limitless possibilities for exploration, learning, connection, and contribution.

As you turn the page on a new chapter, the story of your life unfolds amidst a rich history that precedes you and will follow you. Many people find this continuity reassuring when dealing with life transitions.

Whether the history buff or someone that just enjoys being a part of a place with character and history, Lakeland offers senior living that benefits from a historical context.

The past is present here. And your place in it matters.

Westminster Communities of Florida have been serving older adults since 1954. We are a not-for-profit faith-based organization and over 7000 residents. Besides this quality, we lay claims to 22 communities.

Learn more at https://westminstercommunitiesfl.org/.

You didn’t plan for this.

The fall. The surgery. The stroke. Maybe you had an injury, accident, illness that required rehabilitation – it wasn’t in the plan.

But here you are. Surprisingly, Lakeland may just be the precise location for you right now.

Beyond the Basics of Recovery

When you think “rehabilitation,” what comes to mind? Physical therapy sessions? Walker-assisted trips down hospital hallways?

Images of old people receiving help surely comes to mind. However, this is hardly what modern rehabilitation is like.

The rehabilitation approach today is wildly unlike that of a decade ago. It’s comprehensive. Personalized. Sometimes even enjoyable. In fact, it is true. Lakeland is a big part of it – using new tools that treat you like a whole person, not just a set of symptoms to be fixed.

We’re thrilled to reveal the rehabilitation scene is totally different! Instead, think warm and inviting spaces that feel more like upscale wellness centers than clinical facilities. Places where healing feels possible – even inevitable.

The Human Element Makes All the Difference

Machines and protocols matter, sure. However, any one of the people who have undergone rehabilitation say that it is the people who change you.

Rehabilitation specialists in Lakeland possess something extraordinary. You won’t just get technical knowledge—and there is plenty of that—but there will also be a genuine interest in your success. They remember your grandchildren’s names. Celebrate your victories, however small. Understand when to push and when to provide compassion.

This customization is part of a larger overall strategy to implement person-themed care models. As it turns out in more and more new analysis of the industry, facilities are becoming more focused on “emotional, intellectual, social, spiritual, and environmental well-being” along with physical recovery.

The difference this makes in recovery outcomes? Substantial.

Technology Enhancing Human Touch

As much as the heart of rehabilitation excellence is personal connection, so is technology a growing supporting player in Lakeland.

Consider advanced systems that monitor movement and give quick feedback during therapy. Virtual reality software that turn repetitive exercises from boring to fun.

Ways for specialists to check your improvement between visits using telehealth connections.

These devices don’t substitute for people but support them. They provide therapists with more accurate data to tailor recovery plans and change items based on what the client needs and how they respond.

And of course, sometimes technology makes rehabilitation more fun too! For example, who wouldn’t prefer to regain hand mobility, by playing a VR game instead of squeezing a rubber ball multiple times?

Comprehensive Care: More Than Physical Recovery

Your body exists in mind and spirit, not in isolation. Lakeland’s rehabilitation programs understand this basic fact with methods that.

Improving movement, regaining strength, bolstering energy and rebuilding muscles.
Improvements of memory, focus and concentration to build confidence.
Emotional health is the ability to accept changes in your health and adapt to the new norm.
Social connection prevents isolation during healing and maintains community ties.

You could have a session of your speech therapy, then immediately participate in a cognitive skills group, and in the afternoon, have an art workshop where you will be working on your fine internal motor skills while expressing how you are feeling with the recovery process.

The result? Real recovery is not just fixing a malfunctioning part of the machine (you).

A Day in Rehabilitation: What to Expect

You wake in your private room. Sunshine filters through the window – actual sunshine, not fluorescent. You start the day with a tasty breakfast designed by a nutritionist to help you recover.

Your personalized schedule might include.

Morning physical therapy happens at a fancy gym that feels like a rich person’s gym, not a medical one.
A mid-morning rest break on a sunny patio.
Speech therapy before lunch.
A shared meal with others on similar recovery journeys.
Occupational therapy to help with daily living activities.
An evening activity that sharpens newly learned skills while allowing one to socialize.

The spaces in between scheduled programs allow for quiet reflection or socialization – both of which are important for successful recovering.

All communications will be documented on sophisticated electronic systems that will track your course of treatment and celebrate achieving milestones, and adjust your treatment according to your behaviors.

Transitioning Home: Where Lakeland Truly Excels

Maybe what makes Lakeland different from other rehabilitation setups is what happens once the intensive recovery phase is over.

Instead of a sudden “graduation” from services, you’ll undergo thoughtfully orchestrated transitions. Home assessments discover potential obstacles before they become problems. As we gradually reduce your services, we ensure you are ready for every increase in independence. Follow-up appointments track your continued progress.

Their planning for you to gradually step down from intensive therapy to independent living will greatly reduce your chance of re-hospitalization. As the health care system increasingly moves to measuring health care outcomes rather than the services that get delivered, Lakeland’s focus on successful transitions illustrates it is about authentic recovery rather than billable therapy time.

Finding Your Perfect Rehabilitation Match

Not every rehabilitation program is the same – nor should it be. Varied methods are effective for diverse individuals and ailments.

In evaluating Lakeland’s options, consider.

Some centers specialize in orthopedic recovery while others are in neurological rehabilitation.
Visit the place to also know the environment.
Speak to the centers about their staff turnover rate since consistent relationships will lead to better recovery.
Transitioning: Ask about how they will help you plan to return to independent living.
Ask how rehab services at a continuing-care community will connect to other levels of service if you’ll be utilizing them.

Take time with this decision. Tour facilities. Ask detailed questions. Talk with current or former patients if possible.

The right rehabilitation environment does more than support recovery – it has the power to transform what might otherwise be simply rebounding back to baseline into an opportunity for increased vitality and appreciation for what is possible.

The Future of Rehabilitation: Already Here in Lakeland

The rehabilitation landscape continues evolving rapidly. The senior communities of Lakeland adapt to changes ahead of time and incorporate it into policies and procedures.

The innovative models of group therapy and AI-based analysis of movement are being tested continually in the communities.

You don’t have to worry about whether your recovery will benefit from the latest advances or not – we have equipped our senior communities with the latest.

Whatever reason brought rehabilitation on your radar, be assured of this: Lakeland rehabilitation has not merely the facilities to help recuperate you, but nature’s excellence to bring you back to action in life.

The Westminster Communities of Florida® is a faith-based, not-for-profit organization that has been serving older people since 1954 and is home to more than 7000 people in 22 communities.

Learn more at https://westminstercommunitiesfl.org/.

You know that feeling. The gentle caress of a warm breeze against your skin. The earthy scent of soil and blossoms mingling in the air. The way sunlight enters through leaves creating natural patterns on the ground or floor under our feet.

In Lakeland, you will find that at nearly every turn.

While Florida’s reputation for natural beauty often spotlights its beaches and coastal areas, you’ll find that Lakeland harbors its own collection of verdant treasures – perfect for those moments when you crave connection with nature without venturing far from home.

Beyond Your Backyard: Accessible Nature Havens

Lakeland’s suburban atmosphere offers something special—the chance to have both city living and nature nearby. You don’t have to make a big plan to enjoy nature and let it heal you.

Just a few minutes from your doorstep, botanical gardens show off the plants of Florida. Some include winding paths for every mobility level, so whatever your physical ability, you’ll be able to walk down the paths. Gardens that feature wide paved paths and benches are offered for you to choose your pace. Want to power-walk in the morning? Or would you prefer stopping to smell the flowers in the afternoon?

The designs of these spaces are valuable for senior living. You will often find handrails in sloped areas, shaded resting spots, water features in local gardens. It helps relax the place and create cooler microclimate in summer.

Finding Your Green Sanctuary

Everyone connects with nature differently. Some like formal gardens with design control while others like wilder ones that are less formal. Luckily, Lakeland’s parks offer enough variety to suit everyone.

Looking for structure and artistry? You might be attracted to formal gardens with geometric patterns and deliberate plants. This place makes use of seasonal colors so that it looks good all the time.

Prefer something less manicured? You might want to consider natural areas with boardwalks through native ecosystems to see the state’s native plants in their natural settings. Here you might see some of the local fauna doing what it does best.

When you want a little of both worlds, parks with mixed habitats (part garden, part natural area) provide ideal compromises.

Nature as Your Wellness Partner

The advantages of being in nature are more than just enjoyable pastime. Studies show that scientists believe that being in green spaces is very good for our wellbeing as we age.

When you go for a walk among the trees and the flowers, your blood pressure drops. Your stress hormones drop. Your mood lifts.

Regularly being in nature is associated with better sleep, less inflammation, better immunity, and stronger thinking abilities. If you have a chronic condition, the gentle exercise nature encourages in a garden, combined with nature’s benefits, can be very helpful.

But maybe the main benefit is the social aspect that shared open spaces offer. Gardens naturally facilitate conversation and connection. When humans are together with other humans, they are more likely to connect.

Seasonal Delights Throughout the Year

Lakeland boasts a climate perfect for gardening all year long. In other states above and including Georgia, winter brings dormancy to gardens in areas with winter. Florida’s garden offers a continuous cycle of bloom and growth.

Spring brings exuberant flowering trees and shrubs. Summer showcases tropical species at their most lush. Fall introduces subtle color shifts and fruit formations. Even the winter has its beauty of the flowers that choose the cooler days to bloom.

A garden calendar that does not end gives you the opportunity to grow a seasonal routine all year. Summers may be well suited for morning visits, while winters favour afternoons. Everything looks different with the changing seasons, even familiar surroundings. In other words, you can always expect fresh experiences from a garden.

Bringing Nature Home

The ideas you get from visiting a garden don’t have to stay with you there. You can create mini-retreats on your patio or balcony by container gardening.

Small arrangements of flowers, herbs, or ornamental plants can be made even in confined spaces. Your walls and fence sections can be used for growing crops too with vertical gardening options.

Raised planters do away with bending and kneeling for those with arthritis or mobility issues. Modern potting materials help to make moving containers easier than ever.

Taking care of even a few plants connects you with nature and keeps you active. Seeing something grow from the planting of a seed to its flowering is a wonderful thing to experience. The little activity can give you unique psychological benefits that flowers grown in bigger gardens can’t do.

Nature as Community

Garden appreciation creates natural communities. People interested in plants often swap tips and stories, helping to foster and strengthen connections through sharing similar interests.

We may find more sophisticated things to talk about at more formal gatherings like garden clubs or horticultural classes, but these conversations happen just as much in other places. In beautiful surroundings, people open up.

And isn’t that one of life’s greatest pleasures? Ever connected with new people while pursuing interests? Gardens have facilitated such moments for centuries.

In senior living communities, communal garden areas become socialising spaces for residents catching up, sitting quietly together, or taking part in activities. Community green spaces act as natural extensions of interior spaces and offer health benefits that do not stop at the walls.

Your Next Garden Adventure

What local garden would you like to visit tomorrow morning? Which natural path might you explore? Which garden will become your favourite hangout to be?

Lakeland’s hidden gardens await your discovery. Every garden has its own charm, its unique range of plants and its own quality of light and shade.

The only question is which you’ll choose to visit first.

Because in Lakeland, nature’s embrace is never far away. Seniors can spend time outdoors with nature. Nature has many physical, emotional, and social benefits. All of which will make senior living in Lakeland better than ever.

Your next garden adventure begins whenever you’re ready.

Westminster Communities of Florida® is a faith-based, not-for-profit organization serving older adults since 1954, with more than 7,000 residents in 22 communities. Learn more at https://westminstercommunitiesfl.org/

If you’re an aspiring novelist looking for a challenge, this is your month! National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo) began November 1 and offers the perfect opportunity to challenge yourself to complete a 50,000-word novel in 30 days. By taking part, you can gain valuable skills and join a thriving community of creatives. At Westminster Communities of Florida, we believe that lifelong learning and experimenting with new creative endeavors and skills is an invaluable part of a well-rounded lifestyle. Read on to learn more about how National Novel Writing Month came to be, its benefits and tips for getting started.

HOW IT STARTED

NaNoWriMo began in 1999 with 21 participants who completed their novels and created a new tradition. Since then, the event has grown exponentially, bringing together over 400,000 people internationally who collectively write their novels.
For many aspiring authors, the event provides an opportunity to test their creative skills, build confidence and contribute to a community of writers sharing experiences and providing support to others during the month-long process.

THE BENEFITS OF PARTICIPATING

NaNoWriMo gives you the chance to challenge yourself in ways that may not have been possible before. Push yourself outside of your comfort zone by trying new ideas, techniques, or genres as part of the project. If you set achievable goals, you’ll get the satisfaction of seeing what you’ve accomplished quickly – something that isn’t always easy when working on longer projects.
Additionally, many local communities host write-ins throughout the month where writers come together to encourage each other’s progress and share advice about their own writing process. If you’re looking for an exciting way to challenge yourself creatively this November – consider participating in NaNoWriMo!

TIPS FOR GETTING STARTED

Writing a novel in 30 days is an ambitious goal, but with the right preparation and tools it can be a manageable feat. Here are some tips to help you get started:

• Set a Goal: Before you begin, decide how many words you would like to write each day and stick to it. Be realistic about what you think you can achieve which will help keep you motivated and on track.
• Create a Comfortable Writing Space: Find somewhere you can focus and have your materials easily accessible. This may be at home or in a public space. Make sure that your environment has minimal distractions allowing you to make the most of your time.
• Utilize Online Tools: There are plenty of resources available to help keep track of word count goals, organize ideas, take notes, brainstorm plots, research topics, stay focused and more! Utilizing these resources can greatly improve efficiency all month long.
• Connect With an Online Community: Connect with other NaNoWriMo participants. Join online forums and discussion boards to ask questions about any challenges you experience along the way, share successes and inspire others to keep going!
• Take Regular Breaks: Taking breaks from writing helps clear your mind so that when you return to work on your novel again, fresh ideas will come more easily.

Whether you’re a seasoned writer or a complete novice, National Novel Writing Month is a great opportunity to test your creative skills, build confidence and connect with a community of like-minded individuals. So what are you waiting for? Sign up today and start writing your novel!

If you’re spending this Halloween with family, especially the youngest members of your family, why not spend quality time together making special holiday themed snacks? Try one of these adorably spooky snacks below with your family this year!

Skeleton Gingerbread Men

Find the recipe for these little guys on olivemagazine.com

Dark Chocolate Orange and Black Cookies

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White Chocolate Covered Ghost Strawberries

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Brain Rice Krispy Treats

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Chocolate Pretzel Spiderwebs

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If you are experiencing hearing loss, you may be wondering if over-the-counter hearing aids are a good option for you. Until recently, the only way to get a hearing aid was to go to a hearing health professional and get a prescription. Now, adults 18 and older with mild-to-moderate hearing problems can find a more cost-effective solution with over-the-counter hearing aids.

If you are experiencing hearing loss, it’s important to see a professional audiologist to get the help you need. A qualified provider can complete a diagnostic hearing test to determine the best way to improve your hearing. This will help rule out any complex ear conditions that can sometimes cause hearing loss including infections, earwax buildup or injuries, all of which can’t be fixed by hearing aids.

With complex conditions ruled out, consumers can buy these devices directly. Here is a brief overview of what you need to know about over-the-counter hearing aids, including who they are right for, what types are available, how much they cost, and where you can get them.

1 – What’s the difference between a prescription hearing aid and an over-the-counter device?

Over-the-counter hearing aids are available without a medical exam, prescription, or professional fitting. These “one-size-fits-most” devices provide a basic level of hearing correction and may be sufficient for some people. While prescription hearing aids are more expensive, they will be able to treat the nuances of different types of hearing loss better with more sophisticated technology. They may also be a good choice for someone who has tried an over-the-counter option without success.

2 – What types of over-the-counter hearing aids are there?

There are two types available: self-fitting and non-self-fitting. Self-fitting devices come with adjustable settings that allow users to customize the device’s sound output according to their own individual needs and preferences. Non-self-fitting devices come preloaded with a few predetermined sound settings and volume control. Overall, both types have their advantages and disadvantages, so it is important for consumers to understand each option before making a decision to get the most out of their device.

3 – Will over-the-counter hearing aids be the same quality as prescription hearing aids?

When it comes to hearing aids, the quality of the device is of utmost importance. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration regulates all types of hearing aids and has set minimum standards for safety and effectiveness that must be met by both over-the-counter and prescription devices. This means that when you purchase an over-the-counter device, you can be sure that it meets strict safety regulations and provides a certain level of sound amplification. However, there will likely be differences in appearance, style, features, and sound quality between over-the-counter devices and those prescribed by a professional audiologist or other qualified provider. Be sure to do your research and read user reviews for information about battery life, warranties and return policies offered.

4 – How do costs compare for over-the-counter hearing aids?

Over-the-counter hearing aids are typically much less expensive than traditional prescription hearing aids, with some models costing as little as a few hundred dollars. The cost of prescription hearing aids varies widely but can run anywhere from $2,000 to $7,000. Compare prices of the over-the-counter options as well as the features among different models to find the best value for your money.

5 – Where can I get an over-the-counter hearing aid?

Over-the-counter hearing aids are available in pharmacies including CVS and Walgreens, some big box stores like Wal-Mart and Best Buy, as well as online.
Acclimating to wearing hearing aids takes time and practice. You should wear your hearing aids frequently to become accustomed to their features and how to adjust the program settings to suit different listening environments. If you find that you are not getting the benefits you expected from your over-the-counter hearing aids, consider consulting with a hearing health care professional, such as an audiologist, otolaryngologist (ear, nose, and throat doctor), or hearing aid specialist.

Each week, anywhere from 12-20 residents at Westminster Woods on Julington Creek, our Life Plan Community in Jacksonville, meet to exercise their minds as well as their bodies. Fitness Coordinator Jeri Jo Fox leads residents in stimulating exercises aiming to maintain their mental agility. Staying mentally sharp is a key component of leading a healthy life, and it’s never too late to start.

“Just because I’m the fitness coordinator, it’s not all about me teaching physical fitness,” Jeri Jo said. “Brain fitness is just as important.”

Westminster Woods on Julington Creek isn’t the only Westminster community mixing brain health exercises into their daily activities. Brain health programming can be found at each of our Life Plan Communities throughout the state emphasizing the need to exert different areas of the brain and maximize its potential as we age.

For years, Jeri Jo has been incorporating brain fitness exercises into her physical fitness classes. She completed hours of research, connected with experts, and created her own curriculum full of exercises involving finger manipulation, coordination and a combination of physical exercise and brain stimulation. Today she leads residents through a 12-week program called Total Brain Health. Through puzzles, games, creative endeavors, and even physical activities, residents are challenged both mentally and physically in order to stay sharp. The science-based, expert-designed curriculum offers simple exercises for cognitive wellness and details why these exercises are beneficial for brain health.

“There are so many things that are related to brain health for a successful quality of life,” Jeri Jo said. “I’ve seen after COVID the people who did not socialize or exercise, part of them just shut down. There’s so much that you can control, so why not incorporate it?”

During class residents are given worksheets and handouts to coincide with the brain games and workouts to highlight which area of the brain they’re working and to further develop social skills, but the lessons are varied.

“Every week is a different lesson so residents aren’t going to fall behind if they miss one or two or three,” Jeri Jo said. “You start off with a physical warmup with your hands and your feet, and everything you do you’re counting backwards or forwards or saying the alphabet, so you’re warming up your brain.”

Jeri Jo noted that she has some very healthy and very independent residents attending the Total Brain Health class, but that the program extends beyond just independent living residents.

“This is the one class some of my more physically challenged independent residents can attend. They might not come to balance class, but they really look forward to this,” Jeri Jo said. “I took that same exercise to the health center because they can do it! Even if they are sitting in a wheelchair, they can still participate in a brain game.”

Residents tell Jeri Jo they notice the effects and feel better. “They look forward to this and they like the challenge,” she said noting she’s seeing benefits herself leading the class through these exercises. “I feel like my mind is clearer and sharper because I do this stuff.”

IMPROVING BRAIN HEALTH AT HOME

By exercising your brain either at home or at a Westminster community, you strengthen the neural pathways in your brain, which can help to improve your memory, attention, and problem-solving skills. November is Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month and if you can’t be there to participate in Jeri Jo’s Total Brain Health class in person, she offered some ways you can get a brain workout at home to improve your brain health and reduce your risk of Alzheimer’s disease and other cognitive disorders.

1. 1. Read out loud for 15 minutes each day.
2. 2. Write. If your hands don’t work well use your computer and type or write for 15 minutes each day. Write a letter, or write a story, write a summary of your day, write what you’re grateful for – just write!
3. 3. Socialize. Connect with others. In order to have a conversation with somebody, you have to remember what they said, you have to pull from your memory and find the vocabulary.
4. 4. Challenge your brain through a mentally stimulating exercise or by doing a game against the clock. Something that is new and novel is desirable to your brain.
5. 5. Eat well, stay hydrated, sleep and exercise.

When you choose to live at a Westminster community, you’ll have access to a plethora of well-being opportunities to exercise your mind and body. Learn more about the lifestyle you can enjoy and find the community near you today!