Older Adults Technology Services (OATS) from AARP recently opened a Senior Planet center in Wynwood, Miami, for adults ages 50-plus. The area's first technology-themed community center for older adults offers help with technology in a center that includes computer equipment, Wi-Fi, and 72 screens – all free of charge.

Starting in January, multilingual classes will be offered weekly in English, Spanish, and Haitian Creole focusing on technology, health, finance, community, and the arts -- for example, "All Things Zoom," "Computer Essentials," "Cloud Storage," and "Smartphones at a Glance." The center also offers one-on-one technology training and tech discussion groups.

"AARP research shows that 75% of those age 50 and above rely on technology for staying connected,” noted AARP's Kristin Dillon, senior vice president for State and Community Engagement. “In Wynwood, with over 35% of the population falling into this age group, the Senior Planet center promises to be a vibrant social and educational hub."

Beyond weekly classes, the center includes multiple communal areas, including a coffee bar, to encourage socializing and collaborative learning. At 4,300 square feet, the space was previously an art gallery.  On the exterior of the building, OATS collaborated with local muralist Rage Johnson to pay homage to the area's connection to the arts.

Senior Planet is the flagship program of OATS, a charitable affiliate of AARP that provides a wide range of free, community-based and online classes to demystify traditionally inaccessible topics for older adults. The program, currently serving  locations across the US, is built on the principles of community learning and social connection for the older adult population.

To learn more about the Miami center and OATS programs, click here

To learn more about Senior Planet and enroll in free online classes, or in-person classes in selected locations across the US, click here