AARP Senior Planet Center Opens in Miami to Provide Tech Help

En español | Older adults in South Florida have a new place to meet friends for coffee, take classes and get help with the latest technology. OATS (Older Adults Technology Services) from AARP celebrated the grand opening of its newest Senior Planet community center Dec. 4 in Miami.

The technology-themed center is housed in a former art gallery in the city’s growing Wynwood neighborhood and aims to be a social and educational hub for adults 50 and older.

Modeled after a coworking space, the center offers visitors free access to state-of-the-art computer equipment and Wi-Fi, a coffee bar and multiple spaces for socializing.

Visitors can enroll in weekly technology classes such as “All Things Zoom” and “Smartphones at a Glance,” or sign up for one-on-one tech training sessions or technology discussion groups. Classes are offered in English, Spanish and Haitian Creole and also cover topics such as health and fitness, finance and the arts. Registration is open now for classes that begin in January.

“We have been working for years to bring Senior Planet to Miami, and are thrilled to be launching a center in Wynwood, where technology, innovation and diversity are celebrated,” said OATS Executive Director Tom Kamber in a statement. He added that the center will serve older adults across the Miami region regardless of income or demographic.

According to AARP research, three in four people 50 and older rely on technology to stay connected with friends and loved ones, and AARP has long been committed to helping older adults learn how to use the latest devices and equipment.

“As the world continues to experience rapid advancements in technology, it’s vital to ensure accessible spaces for older adults to stay informed and connected,” Kristin Dillon, AARP’s senior vice president for state and community engagement, said in a statement.

The Miami center joins three other Senior Planet community centers in New York City; Denver; and Plattsburgh (North Country), New York.

Read more about the Miami center, and get more information about Senior Planet, including how to enroll in free online or in-person classes, at SeniorPlanet.org.