What's Happening in Lakeland, FL…

Lakeland is one of 15 cities in the state that have been named as ‘Age-Friendly Communities’ by AARP.

The city and many organizations within it make significant efforts to ensure residents can spend the rest of their lives in the community by providing programs and amenities needed by the elderly. Being recognized by the senior political interest group AARP signifies the city is on the right track.
According to Laura Cantwell, the associate state director for AARP, members of the organization do not want to move to new towns, so the AARP works to help communities provide necessary resources for elderly residents.

The Age-Friendly Community project focuses on eight categories of senior living: social and medical services, housing, public areas, transportation, communication, social inclusion, social participation, and civic participation and employment

Lakeland Vision is heading the project as it worked with the Council of Seniors, which preceded the AARP initiative. Executive director Laura Rodriguez believes Lakeland has made great strides in improving the community for seniors. Not only do seniors need healthcare, but a way to make the most out of their retirement years, Rodriguez says.

Lakeland has a five-year plan starting with asking residents aged 45 or older about their needs from the community. Residents aged 50 or older make up half of the city's population.

Cities often turn to banner printing companies to highlight proud achievements like the AARP recognition.