Panama's Social Security Fund offers courses and workshops for retirees

Panama's Social Security Fund (CSS) is providing retirees and seniors with opportunities to stay active and engaged through its network of Wellness Centers. These facilities offer a range of courses and workshops designed to stimulate physical and cognitive abilities, boost self-esteem, and promote independence during later life stages.

Aquiles Aguilar, the national head of the CSS Program for Retirees, Pensioners, and the Elderly, explained that the centers focus on enabling older adults to maintain an active lifestyle through educational, recreational, and social activities. Participants can choose from various options, including courses, workshops, seminars, physical exercises, reading circles, dance classes, and musical instrument instruction.

"It is fundamental and a good opportunity for older adults to do something different and develop new skills, as it is never too late to learn," Aguilar stated. The centers also provide free courses in pastry, baking, and cooking. Additionally, they offer training on using mobile phones, aiming to help seniors navigate modern technology more easily. Aguilar noted, "We have a very nice course where we teach older adults how to use the cell phone, something that seems so simple to us, but is difficult for them."

The CSS currently operates four Wellness Centers in Parque Lefevre, 5 de Mayo, San Miguelito, and Río Hato. These locations host educational and recreational activities specifically tailored for retired individuals, pensioners, and seniors.