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/.
