In a study by the National Library of Medicine, researchers took a closer look at the onset of dementia versus the frequency a senior visited museums. Those who went to a museum every couple of months showed fewer signs compared to the group of seniors who didn't go at all.
The good news is that, in Rock Hill, there's a wide variety of unique museums to enjoy. The Museum of York County (MYCO) is one of our community's favorites, and we're here to tell you all about it.
Keep reading to learn why seniors should put this local museum at the top of their list and how you'll enjoy yourself to the fullest!
While there are many things to do in Rock Hill, few activities can offer as much as the Museum of York County.
This museum is unique throughout South Carolina since it's the only one in the state that has a Smithsonian-styled education center. It has over 2,000 historical specimens to peruse, all presented in interesting ways so you'll continue to learn without ever running the risk of being bored.
There's an entire area dedicated to the artwork of Vernon Grant, a Rock Hill resident whose illustrative art style draws the eye pictures full of personality and color. Simply looking at a single painting could help inspire your next creative pursuit.
If you plan to visit MYCO with your grandchildren, don't forget to venture to Tot Town. It's a fun learning area that turns play into a memorable learning experience.
Plus, there are areas for picnicking and maintained trails to help stretch your legs and add extra physical activity to your visit. Finishing up your day with a trip to the gift shop can give you keepsakes to remind you of your favorite exhibits or artwork.
As we age, we always want to make sure to seek out senior-friendly attractions. Without certain accessibility features, a wonderful day visit could turn into a disappointment for the entire group.
Luckily, the Museum of York County does its best to keep people of all ages and capabilities in mind with its exhibits and activities. Their top accessibility features include:
The team states that it has a strong willingness to cater to patrons and their needs. If you contact them before a visit with your concerns or questions, they're bound to help find a solution.
To keep itself the shining star of accessible travel destinations in Rock Hill, MYCO has thought of a clever way to offer an educational experience for those with sight or sensory impairments.
They offer a variety of tactile experiences, both with Braille texts as well as touchable illustrations that help patrons take in the exhibits with other senses.
Make sure to ask the museum's team for more information about sensory kits if this is something that would improve your visit.
If you ever start to feel overwhelmed or don't want to worry about where to go next, sign up for a guided tour. This can allow you to take in the museum without any worries as you follow a guide through the exhibits.
All educational museums need exhibits that you can't find anywhere else. The best part about this museum is that many of the exhibits show off the thriving history and love for Rock Hill and South Carolina as a whole.
Want to see what regular everyday things looked like in the Rock Hill area centuries ago? MYCO has many specimens for you to look at, including items such as:
It's one of the best cultural activities for seniors to see South Carolina's history and feel reconnected with the area and its foundations.
Although not a born-and-bred South Carolinian, Vernon Grant made Rock Hill his family's home after World War II. He was an active community member and lived there the rest of his life.
He loaned his artwork to MYCO and was a large part of its years of success.
He's even the driving force behind the museum's ongoing tradition of using his depictions of Santa Claus on holiday cards to celebrate the unique appeal of both MYCO and its art section.
If you're looking for a way to feel more connected with one of Rock Hill's most famous artists, or want some inspiration for your next community art activity, make sure to visit as soon as possible.
This wondrous exhibit uses high-end technology to give us a view of the universe like never before. The planetarium is a fully-encased dome that uses digital screens to show detailed images such as:
It can make it feel as though you're out exploring the endlessness of space yourself. It's a great choice for those who love learning about outer space or anyone who wants a magical other-worldly experience.
Don't miss out on their Carolina Skies program. It explains what you can see in the sky in South Carolina during the current season, including constellations and planets.
You'll get to learn how to identify cool features in the night sky and can come back to learn more as the seasons change.
With so much to explore and interact with, it's easy to see why the Museum of York County is such a shining star in the Rock Hill area. We believe it should be part of every senior's retirement activity list.
TerraBella Rock Hill is a local South Carolina senior community that wants to work with you to create a fulfilling retirement. We offer a variety of activities, expansive meal plans, and exciting community events all the time.
Contact TerraBella Rock Hill and our guided tour can show you everything you'll gain by joining us!