Good Starting Points

• AARP
  The Web site of the American Association of Retired Persons includes a list of Internet resources related to aging.

• Resource Directory for Older People
  Search for national organizations by name or subject category and state resources by state or organization type. The directory, a cooperative effort between the National Institute on Aging and the Administration on Aging, identifies resources helpful to anyone with an interest in aging.

• Senior Citizens' Resources
  View a directory of official information and services from the U.S. government, and sign up for e-mail alerts when information on the page changes.

• SeniorNavigator
  SeniorNavigator provides information on health and aging resources for older adults in Virginia. The site focuses on health services, legal and financial services, housing and health facilities, community services and caregiving. Search for resources by specific type and by zip code. This nonprofit site was founded by the Virginia Health Care Foundation in association with various partners.

• Today's Seniors
  A resource guide for those who are preparing for retirement as well as those who have already retired, containing information on topics such as finances and health.

• Virginia Easy Access
  The Virginia Easy Access Web site was originally designed by the commonwealth of Virginia as a gateway to information for older adults, adults with disabilities, caregivers and providers. However, the usefulness of the links and information presented will be of value to everyone in Virginia. It is a service of the No Wrong Door Initiative, which links public agencies and private service providers.

• ABLEDATA
  Assistive technology products can help improve or maintain mobility and make daily tasks easier and safer. ABLEDATA provides objective information about assistive technology products and helps you locate the companies that sell them.

• Adult Day Care Centers in Virginia
  Search for an adult day care facility in Virginia and view inspection records, dating from July 2003, from the Virginia Department of Social Services. You can browse through all of the facilities or search by facility name, zip code, location or special services it offers.

• Aging Parents and Elder Care
  Among the features of this site are comprehensive checklists for many aspects of elder care, a glossary of terms, a support group message board and links to resources not covered on this site.

• Caregiver Information from Medicare
  Caregivers can learn how to navigate Medicare and its billing system, locate local sources of help or find information about care options.

• Caregiver Program, Fairfax County Department of Family Services
  The Fairfax Family Caregiver Support Program provides information, education/training and support to family caregivers of older adults. They also provide support to older adults who care for a relative's child or an adult with a disability.

• Eldercare Locator
  Eldercare Locator is a service of the U.S. Administration on Aging. It links those who need assistance to state and local agencies. After the initial search criteria are entered, the results can be translated into one of several languages through AltaVista's Babelfish translator.

• Family Caregiver Alliance
  This site offers a wealth of information to help families and friends provide long-term care to another adult.

• Family Caregiving 101
  Caregivers for family members or friends who have a chronic illness or disability can find support and information to enhance their caregiving skills. Caregivers are also given advice and tips on taking care of themselves. The site is sponsored by the National Family Caregivers Association and the National Alliance for Caregiving.

• National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization
  This site provides information on choices for end-of-life care to suit individual needs, descriptions of these services, Medicare hospice benefits and a searchable database of providers. Instructions for downloading free state-specific advance directive forms (living will and/or health care directive) are also available.

• Basics of Computing or Computer Help For People Over 50
  Shoban Sen offers free, useful explanations of the basics of computers for seniors or anyone who seeks to expand their knowledge of computer information or learn how to perform certain computer tasks.

• Internet Basics For Seniors
  Tutorials and free, step-by-step instruction from Shoban Sen on the Internet for seniors or anyone else who needs help with the basics.

• SeniorNet
  SeniorNet is a nonprofit organization that encourages older adults to use computer technologies. On the Web site, visitors can participate in online discussions, take online courses or read articles. Topics include technology, books and culture, health, money, recreation and volunteering. Learning Center sites provide "hands-on" classes on how to use computers and the Internet.

• Senior Community Service Employment Program
  Adults age 55 and over and who have limited income may participate in this program to gain temporary, part-time work experience and job training in community services activities. Sponsored by the Fairfax Area Agency on Aging.

• Senior Corps
  Senior Corps matches adults age 55 and over with volunteer opportunities. Find volunteer projects for a chance to make a difference. Programs include the Foster Grandparent Program, the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP), and the Senior Companion Program.

• Senior Employment Resources
  A private, nonprofit organization that offers job counseling, resume help and job placement for adults age 50 and above.

• Senior Job Bank
  View job openings for adults age 50 and over.

• Shepherd's Center of Oakton-Vienna
  A local, nonprofit organization serving the areas surrounding Oakton and Vienna. Volunteers are called upon to provide transportation and other services to older adults residing in Dunn Loring, Fairfax, Falls Church, Oakton, Reston and Vienna.

• VolunteerMatch
  Use the advanced search to find local volunteer opportunities for adults age 55 or more.

• Arlington Learning in Retirement Institute
  The Arlington Learning in Retirement Institute offers college-level, noncredit courses, lectures, special events and activities to help meet the educational and social needs of people over 50. It is run by its members, and sign-up costs vary with the number of courses chosen. Most classes are held at the Clarendon Education Center, which is close to the Clarendon Metro stop.

• Elderhostel
  Educational adventures in the United States and around the world for people 55 and over.

• Institute for Learning in Retirement
  The Institute for Learning in Retirement is affiliated with American University but is independently run by its own board of directors. Up to three courses per term can be chosen for a flat fee, and during semester breaks, members are entitled to free lectures and panel discussions.

• Lifetime Learning Institute
  The Lifetime Learning Institute is sponsored by Northern Virginia Community College but is independently run by its members to help meet the continuing educational needs of persons over 50 years old. Noncredit courses are given in a variety of locations in the Northern Virginia area.

• Osher Lifelong Learning Institute
  The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at George Mason University (formerly the Learning in Retirement Institute) offers classes for people in their retirement years. There are no exams and no credits, and one fee covers all four terms per year. Classes are held at Tallwood House on the GMU campus and at several locations in the Lake Anne area of Reston.

• American Association of Homes and Services for the Aging
  Resources include consumer tips on selecting various types of facilities such as assisted living, continuing care, home-based care, etc.

• Assisted Living Facilities in Virginia
  Search for an assisted living facility in Virginia and view inspection records, dating from July 2003, from the Virginia Department of Social Services. You can browse through all of the facilities or search by facility name, zip code, location or special services it offers.

• Best of the Web — Senior Housing Directory
  Makes it possible to search for senior housing communities and facilities in a number of states. Search by a range of different options including independent living, assisted living, Alzheimer's care, home care, skilled nursing and hospices. There are also useful articles and discussions on choosing the appropriate level of care, financing long-term care, and many aspects of senior care and living.

• Finding Your Way Through the Home Care Maze
  A Fairfax Area Agency on Aging guide for persons who need assistance caring for themselves or a loved one at home. It includes information on determining needs, locating help and paying for care.

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• Guide to Retirement Living
  This online version of "The Guide" provides information on different types of housing and care options for older adults, as well as contact information or links to the Web sites of a variety of service providers in the Washington metro area.

• Housing and Urban Development — Senior Citizens
  This site offers many links to resources on housing options including staying in your own home, finding affordable apartments, assisted living choices and nursing facilities.

Nursing Home Information

• Senior Housing Net
  A directory of retirement communities, assisted living facilities and nursing homes providing detailed information, pictures and even floor plans. The various housing options and payment methods are discussed.

• Senior Housing Services
  The Fairfax County Redevelopment and Housing Authority has information on senior housing residences and home repair services for eligible residents with low and moderate incomes.

• SeniorSites
  SeniorSites focuses on nonprofit housing options for older adults. You can search their database to find residential facilities in Virginia or other states.

• American Bar Association
  The ABA provides information for older adults on topics such as estate planning, wills, probate, trusts and "state programs for older persons."

• Estate Planning and Probate Center from FindLaw
  Information on estate planning, wills, trusts, probate and estate administration.

• Estate Planning Information from CNNmoney
  Includes a list of the top ten things to know regarding estate planning, including information on planning for a will, trust, living will and power of attorney.

• Fighting Fraud Against Older Consumers
  Tips on avoiding telemarketing fraud, plus a toll-free hotline for additional advice and reporting possible fraud. From the National Consumers League.

• Senior Citizens Handbook
  Download this publication, produced by the Virginia State Bar, on the laws and programs affecting older adults in Virginia.

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• Government Resources

• Fairfax Area Agency on Aging
  Describes the agency's programs and services, provides information on volunteer opportunities, and offers a list of suggested aging links. The agency publishes the Golden Gazette, a free monthly newspaper offering information for older adults.

• Fairfax County Senior Centers
  Fairfax County Senior Centers offer many activities, including health, wellness and fitness programs, computer classes, arts and crafts workshops, bridge and chess. Lunchtime meals are available for a minimal fee, and transportation may be available from your home to the center located nearest you.

• Fairfax County Senior Programs and Services
  Links to Fairfax County government resources for older adults and caregivers.

• Virginia Department for the Aging
  Outlines the services offered by the local Area Agencies on Aging in Virginia; provides information on nursing homes, long-term care and advance medical directives; and discusses tax relief for older adults in Virginia.

• Nonprofit Organizations

• Alzheimer's Association, National Capital Area
  Provides information about Alzheimer's disease, tips for caregivers, a list of patient and family programs and services, and a monthly calendar of Alzheimer's forums throughout the region. Includes a toll-free help line.

• Capital Hospice
  Capital Hospice, serving the Washington DC metropolitan area, provides information on their services and end-of-life care.

• disAbilityNavigator.org
  Information about organizations and resources available to Virginia residents. Search by zip code and keyword to find local agencies, or browse by topic to see articles and links on topics such as health; housing; community support and resources; legal and financial issues; advocacy; recreation, travel; life skills and more.

• Jewish Council for the Aging of Greater Washington
  The site provides telephone contacts for information on this organization's programs, events and publications.

• Shepherd's Center of Oakton-Vienna
  A local, nonprofit organization that offers services and programs to older adults residing in the Dunn Loring, Fairfax, Falls Church, Oakton, Reston and Vienna areas.

• Government Resources

• BenefitsCheckUp
  A service provided by The National Council on the Aging that identifies the federal and state benefits and assistance programs available for a specific individual. A form must be filled out, but no personal information is required.

• Money and Taxes for Seniors
  Information from federal and state government resources on topics such as estate planning, saving money, pension plans and wills.

• Social Security Administration
  Read the Social Security Handbook; find out about Medicare premiums and providers; download forms; view the answers to frequently asked questions; and more.

• Virginia Insurance Counseling & Assistance Program
  VICAP offers free and confidential assistance and advice on health insurance and long-term care insurance in person or by phone.

• Nonprofit Organizations

• AARP — Money and Work
  This membership organization for people age 50 and over has information on topics such as careers, financial planning and retirement, credit and debt, and social security.

• "FRONTLINE: Can You Afford to Retire?"
  This PBS, "FRONTLINE" program suggests that many middle class Americans will not have enough money saved to retire. Watch the program online and read information on what you need to know to save for retirement.

• Pension Rights Center
  This consumer organization works to protect and promote the pension rights of American workers, retirees and their families.

• ELDR — Celebrate Aging!
  ELDR is the online version of a print magazine for older adults. Create a free account to join the community, post your opinions, and participate in the online discussion groups.

• Eons
  Eons is a free social networking community for adults "on the flipside of fifty." Find members who share your interests, hobbies and ideas; post messages, replies, photos, etc.; or read articles on topics such as health and wellness, money matters, and entertainment.

The following sites may require free registration:

• Food

• NetGrocer.com
  Choose between groceries, a nonprescription drugstore or a general store. There is a five percent to 10 percent delivery charge.

• Peapod.com
  Shop online for groceries through Giant food stores in the Washington metropolitan area. Schedule a delivery time. There is a delivery charge and a minimum order amount.

• Prescriptions

• National Association of Boards of Pharmacy
  Find reliable, licensed online pharmacies certified by the Verified Internet Pharmacy Practice Sites (VIPPS) program. Both prescription and nonprescription products may be available through these pharmacies. To access the list of pharmacies or to search for VIPPS pharmacies providing services to a certain state, click on the Accreditation Programs link and choose VIPPS.

• Patient Assistance Programs
  PAPs are programs offered by pharmaceutical companies and provide free or low-cost prescription medicines for low-income individuals who meet certain eligibility requirements. The drug companies may have different application and eligibility requirements; however, most programs require that individuals do not have prescription coverage, have incomes under 200 percent of the Federal Poverty Level, and must be U.S. citizens or residents.

• NeedyMeds
  NeedyMeds is a nonprofit organization that helps individuals find low-cost patient assistance programs for prescription medicines. You can view the lists of drugs by brand or generic name, or see if a pharmaceutical company is currently offering a PAP.

• RXAssist
  This information center, created by Volunteers in Healthcare, offers a database of pharmaceutical company PAPs. Creating a free account lets you search the database to find out if you qualify for an assistance program. Application forms may be available online, and the site has additional information on resources to assist low-income patients with medical care. Free registration is required.

• Retirement Information From CNN/Money
  Useful resources include the annual Best Places to Live and Best Places to Retire surveys. These include statistical data on nearly 500 towns across the United States, allowing you to choose from a variety of criteria to find your own personal, ideal retirement place.

• Retirement and Benefits Calculators On-Line
  A collection of calculators including 401(k), annuity, government employee, Roth IRA and savings estimates to help in planning for retirement.

• Retirement Living Information Center
  Useful features include links to news articles on issues relating to retirement living, links to online publications for older adults and a list of companies offering services or products for people with special needs.

• Sperling's BestPlaces
  Find the ideal place to live or compare statistics on cost of living, housing, education, crime, climate and more for 1,000 U.S. cities. Site requires free registration for access to information.

• Fastran
  Fastran transports, via bus or cab, residents of Fairfax County and the cities of Fairfax and Falls Church. Riders must be certified by a sponsoring Fairfax County Human Services Agency program.

• Metrorail — Senior and Disabled Fares
  Older adult residents who have a valid, government issued photo ID, and people with disabilities who qualify for a Metro Disability ID Card may buy Senior SmarTrip cards or other reduced rate farecards.

• Seniors-On-The-Go!
  Taxicab coupon booklets are available at a reduced cost to residents of Fairfax County and the City of Fairfax, who are at least 65 years of age and meet certain income criteria.

• TaxiAccess
  Taxicab coupon booklets are available at a reduced cost to Fairfax County residents who are registered with MetroAccess. TaxiAccess is designed for persons whose disabilities are so significant that they prevent the use of fixed-route transit service.

• Virginia GrandDriver
  Granddriver offers safety tips and quizzes for older drivers and their families. Includes area transportation alternatives and lists of CarFit events.