FARMINGTON – An organization that serves people 50 years old and older is offering mini courses in September to focus on personal and financial health. The courses range from investment safety to managing your mental health.

One does not have to be a member of AARP Maine to take part in the AARP University from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 9, at the Olsen Student Center at the University of Maine at Farmington.

Preregistration is required, Phyllis Cohn, director of AARP Maine communications director, said. There is a $5 fee to cover lunch and the three courses.

The organization has 2,010 members in the state and puts on two universities a year.

“We haven’t held one in Farmington before,” Cohn said.

It formerly was called Consumer University and then mostly addressed health issues.

“But we’re finding out there is real desire and need to address financial issues,” Cohn said, “That’s why we came up with a two-track program.

Participants will be able to choose three mini courses and will get those courses, she said.

To register phone toll-free 1-877-926-8300.

“People love this thing,” she said. “It’s a wonderful way to spend the day and have fun and learn something new.”

The guest speaker is Lucie Arbuthnot, Ph.D., who will speak on “Staying Sharp as We Age.”

The mini-courses being offered according to the press packet are:

• Reviewing your retirement game plan – Learn about pitfalls and strategies to have the retirement wanted.

• Investment safety – Get advice on spotting inappropriate investments and working with a financial professional.

• Legal tools for a safe, financial future: Learn the advantages of advance directives, durable power of attorney and other instruments to protect personal and family interests.

• The ancient art of T’ai Chi: Great for balance and flexibility.

• Managing your mental health: Learn how to recognize when extra help is needed with depression or anxiety.

• Eating happy but healthy: Healthy eating equals boring and tasteless? Not necessarily. Learn how to keep the waistline and taste buds happy.