By Coral Gables Gazette staff
Senior Citizens Week is bringing a full calendar of free events to Coral Gables this week, with programs ranging from fraud prevention and health screenings to self-defense classes, pet CPR training, and an old-fashioned ice cream social.
The annual celebration, organized by the city’s Adult Activity Center on Andalusia Avenue, began Monday and continues through Friday, Aug. 22. Designed for residents 50 and older, it highlights both the vitality and the needs of the city’s older population while showcasing resources available year-round.
Monday marked the start with introductory programs designed to set the tone for the days ahead, giving participants an early look at the AAC’s offerings and opportunities to connect with neighbors and staff.
Tuesday, Aug. 19 — Healthy aging and legacy planning
Tuesday emphasizes health and long-term planning. At 10 a.m., the University of Miami McKnight Brain Institute presents “Nine Necessities of Healthy Aging,” followed at 11:30 a.m. by the Coral Gables Community Foundation’s session “What Will Your Legacy Be?” Lunch is included. The day concludes with a demonstration of the CapTel captioned telephone, which displays every word a caller says and can be obtained at no cost.
Wednesday, Aug. 20 — Safety, skills and fitness
Wednesday is expected to be the busiest day of the week. It begins with a breakfast program on foot health led by Interim Healthcare Services and Miami Podiatry, P.A. At 11 a.m., Coral Gables Crime Watch, the Florida Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services, and the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission will present a joint session on identity theft, investment scams, and fraud.
The afternoon features hands-on training:
- 12:30 p.m. — Self-defense class with the Coral Gables Police Department
- 1:30 p.m. — CPR and First Aid instruction with the Coral Gables Fire Department
- 2:30 p.m. — Pet CPR session (for service animals only), led by the Fire Department
- 3:30 p.m. — Traffic safety tips for seasoned drivers from the American Automobile Association
Thursday, Aug. 21 — Local services and aging in place
Thursday’s programming highlights resources and planning for older adults. At 10 a.m., Home Watch CareGivers and 305 Seniors provide an overview of services available locally. At 1 p.m., Open Arms Community Center presents on the Aging-in-Place Older Adults Home Modification Program, offering strategies to adapt homes for safety and accessibility. Baptist Health closes the day with physician lectures, screenings, and wellness resources beginning at 2:30 p.m.
Friday, Aug. 22 — Legal guidance and community celebration
The final day begins at 9 a.m. with attorney Steve Lindle covering elder law, Medicaid planning, and estate administration. At 11:30 a.m., a primer on Bitcoin will be offered, with lunch provided by The Palace. The week concludes at 1 p.m. with the End of Summer Ice Cream Social, where raffle winners will be announced and participants can gather for a community sendoff.
A fixture on the city calendar
Senior Citizens Week has become a tradition in Coral Gables, underscoring the city’s commitment to older residents and the role they play in community life. Organizers note that while many sessions focus on serious topics — from fraud prevention to estate planning — others bring an element of fun through fitness, technology, and social connection.
Each event attended qualifies participants for entry in the AAC raffle, with the drawing set for Friday’s ice cream social.
Parking and registration
Complimentary valet parking is available at The Palace across the street. Free parking is also offered in the garage above the AAC with validation at the Registration Office.
All programs are free, but space is limited. Residents are encouraged to reserve seats early, especially for high-demand sessions such as self-defense, CPR, and the legal planning workshop. Registration details are available at here or by calling 305-461-6765.
