Brenda Lyle – Florida Today
Q: What educational opportunities exist for Central Florida seniors?
A: Central Florida has many educational opportunities tailored specifically for seniors. From auditing college classes to engaging community programs, seniors have many options to continue growing intellectually– and socially!
University/College Programs
Senior Audit Programs
Florida residents aged 60 and over can take advantage of free course “auditing” at several local institutions, including the University of Central Florida (UCF) and Valencia College. Auditing allows seniors to attend classes without receiving grades or credit, making it a low-pressure way to explore academic interests. Eastern Florida State College (EFSC) also offers a fee waiver for seniors meeting residency requirements—60 or older and having lived in Florida for at least 12 months prior to the term start date.
Learning Institute for Elders (LIFE at UCF)
LIFE at UCF is a dynamic program offering weekly presentations, online classes and enriching field trips with cultural and educational themes. 
Designed for adults 50 and over, this program promotes social and intellectual engagement with access to UCF faculty, students and campus events. Seniors can also participate in volunteer opportunities, research and university-sponsored activities. Visit lifeatucf.org or call 407-823-5433.
Your Public Library
Learn and Create
Public libraries throughout Central Florida provide free programs specifically for older adults. You’ll find book clubs, computer classes and creative workshops in writing, art and music. The Orange County Library System’s Melrose Center at the downtown Orlando library offers access to 3D printers, audio-visual studios, and technology training.
NextChapter & LIFE Seminar Series
The “NextChapter” series caters to the interests of older adults with lifelong learning topics. Additionally, the Orlando Public Library free “LIFE Information for Elders” monthly seminar series often includes complimentary lunch.
LinkedIn Learning
With a Brevard County Libraries card, seniors can access LinkedIn Learning at no cost. This platform offers over 16,000 online courses in fields such as leadership, marketing, project management and web design—ideal for seniors looking to learn in-demand skills at their own pace. Visit https://www.brevardfl.gov/PublicLibraries for details.
Community-Based Learning
Senior Adventures in Learning (SAIL)
SAIL of Melbourne is a nonprofit interfaith organization that offers learning opportunities for adults aged 50 and up across Brevard County. SAIL offers classes taught primarily by seniors, emphasizing mental and physical wellness. Visit sailofmelbourne.org or call 321-626-0963.
Brevard Adult and Community Education
For seniors interested in personal enrichment without the pressure of formal schooling, Brevard Adult and Community Education offers various classes. Topics range from art and history to technology and wellness. Contact smith.loria@brevardschools.org or call 321-633-3660 ext. 31450.
Central Florida offers a wealth of educational opportunities for seniors, encouraging lifelong learning, social engagement, and personal growth. For more resources for seniors, visit OneSeniorPlace.com.
Brenda Lyle is a Certified Care Manager and Certified Dementia Practitioner with One Senior Place, Greater Orlando. One Senior Place is a marketplace for resources and provider of information, advice, care and on-site services for seniors and their families. Submit your questions to AskOSP@OneSeniorPlace.com. For immediate help, call 321-751-6771 or visit One Senior Place, The Experts in Aging.
