DOTHAN - Michael J. Johnston plans to start his own company. Wanting to brush up on his business skills, the Dothan resident signed up for the recent Senior World Conference at Troy University . “I want to be more informed about the programs the University offers,” Johnston said. “I intend to take a few continuing education courses (on the Dothan Campus) at a later date.”

Irma and Charles Mizell of Pinckard attended their second Senior World Conference to learn valuable computer skills and to mingle with others their age. “It is a lot of fun,” Mizell said. “We do learn a lot, and we meet a lot of people.”

During the one-day conference, sponsored by Outback Steak House and Coca Cola, Wiregrass residents 50 and older learned about everything from legal issues to horticulture and do-it-yourself tips.

Senior World President Mary Bolding said the group hosts the conference twice a year. “This is our way of getting people to the Dothan Campus to find out what Senior World is about,” Bolding said. “They can learn from the different classes and mingle with their peers.”

Between educational sessions, T.J. Williams, an EMT with Pilcher’s Ambulance Service, screened seniors for high blood pressure. “We want to help promote health awareness,” Williams said. “If they have any blood pressure problems we want to bring it to their attention.”

Area healthcare providers administered free spinal tests and ear drum checks. Tammy King Hill, owner of Deep South Home Medical Equipment, also shared information about the latest treatments for everything from sleep apnea to breathing problems. “There are a lot of items,” Hill said, “that can make their lives safer and also prevent accidents.”

The Senior World group plans to hold another conference in the spring. The group also offers free educational seminars on a variety of topics most Wednesdays on the Dothan Campus.

For more information, contact the Troy University Continuing Education Center at (334) 983-0005.