LEWISTON – SeniorsPlus, the area agency on aging based in Lewiston, offers free (unless noted) classes for the older adult learner. The classes are designed to help people make informed choices about aging well, living independently and doing it all safely.

The classes offered this month are:

“Savvy caregiver training,” 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. Wednesdays, Feb. 8-March 7. Instructor: Kathryn Pears, Dementia Care Strategies, Inc. Preregistration required by calling Kathryn at 751-8183 or emailing info@dementiacarestrategies.com. For those caring for a family member with dementia, the 12-hour training program enhances your knowledge and skills, as well as information on how to care for yourself.

“Homeowners: How to put heating oil money in your pocket instead of the oil tank,” 10 a.m. to noon, Thursday, Feb. 9. Instructor: Hal Barter, City of Auburn. Learn how to assess where the energy loss is in your home; the efficiency of your heating system, insulation, as well as cold, drafty areas. Gain the knowledge to create an effective, money-saving plan that will be cost effective and make it less expensive to heat your home.

“Close to age 65? New to Medicare? Medicare information session,” 10 to 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 15. Instructor: Roland Bussiere, SeniorsPlus Medicare counselor. Learn the basics and timelines of this complex system, learn when you need to sign up for what and ways to save money.

“What’s happening to my body as it ages?” This month’s program is on “The flu: Birds, swine and you,” from 1 to 2:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 17. Instructor: Dr. Claudia Geyer, M.D., CMMC. Learn who is at risk, how the flu can affect you and some easy options you can use to protect yourself.

“Your Legal Rights: Recognize the signs of physical, emotional and financial abuse among the elderly,” from 10 to 11:30 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 28. Instructor: Jill K. Randall, Esq., Maine Legal Services for the Elderly. Learn how Maine Legal Services for the Elderly (a free service) can help.

“Strength for Life,” 2 to 3 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays, Feb. 28-April 19. Instructor: Kelli Gilzow, SPRQ Studio. Cost: $50 for 16 one-hour sessions. If you’re not physically active now, the Strength for Life Program will help make daily activity a regular part of your life by building the essential strength that makes all movement easier and more enjoyable.

“Matter of Balance,” 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Mondays, Feb. 27-April 23. Instructor: Kelli Gilzow, SPRQ Studio. $20 for eight two-hour sessions. Many older adults restrict their activities because they are afraid of falling. This program teaches practical ways to prevent and manage falls.

SeniorsPlus classes are free and the location is fully accessible. Hearing assistive equipment is available. For more information, visit www.seniorsplus.org or call 795-4010 or 1-800-427-1241.