Department of Family Services Alert:
Dr. Russell Rayman’s Lifetime of Service Gave Him a Front Row Seat to History
Our lives consist of a series of decisions, and just one can change the course of a life. For Dr. Russell Rayman, his decision in 1962 to forego a more traditional career in medicine and instead join the U.S. Air Force to serve as a flight surgeon, led to a life he never could have imagined. He has visited and lived in unique places around the world, met and befriended interesting people along the way, experienced things most people cannot imagine, and witnessed significant moments in history. Read more.
Join the VFICOPE Study: Help Advance Healthy Aging!
The Virginia Fairfax Intrinsic Capacity for Older People (VFICOPE) Study is looking for volunteers living in Fairfax County to help us understand how aging affects physical and mental abilities. ICOPE is a framework developed by the World Health Organization (WHO) to promote healthy aging by preventing, slowing, or reversing declines in physical and mental capacity among older adults. It emphasizes person-centered, community-based care and is designed to support older adults in maintaining their independence and quality of life. Read more.
Try a New Hobby During Great Outdoors Month
In 2019, the U.S. Senate designated June as “Great Outdoors Month.” This was done to encourage people to go outside and reap the social and health benefits that come with spending time in nature. There are plenty of opportunities to spend time outdoors in the Fairfax area, regardless of your activity level. Here are a few to consider. Read more.
How to Recognize and Report Animal Hoarding
Animal hoarding usually starts with good intentions. Someone takes in animals they think are unwanted and need care, but if the animals aren't spayed or neutered, they will begin breeding. As the number of animals grows, living conditions and the animals' health can get worse. This can create a dangerous situation for the people and animals in the home. However, even as things get worse, the person continues to believe that they are helping the animals and doesn't see that the animals are actually suffering. Read more.
When we’re busy with work or family concerns, our house can fall into a state of disarray. But when can ordinary clutter develop into a hoarding situation? Rachael Perrott, Code Compliance Supervisor, and Joan Maguire, Code Compliance Investigator, both with Fairfax County’s Office of Code Compliance, share what hoarding is, and when and how hoarding can become a safety issue - both for the hoarder and those in our community. Karen Hannigan, Family Safety Supervisor in the Department of Family Services, shares the mindset of hoarding, and how her agency and other organizations can help those who are dealing with this disease. Dr. Randall Lockwood, a member of Fairfax County’s Hoarding Committee, shares an important perspective on animal hoarding.
Mature Living can be seen on Channel 16 or 1016 (depending on your service provider) on the following days and times:
This program can also be seen on your computer: FairfaxCounty.gov/cableconsumer/channel-16/mature-living
You can find information on services for older adults at FairfaxCounty.gov/OlderAdults or call 703-324-7948, TTY 711, Monday-Friday.
(by Maria Loh, Fairfax Area Agency on Aging)
Sunny days in June bring a host of outdoor activities, backyard barbecues, and the launch of the annual Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program!
The Virginia Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program (VA SFMNP), also known as Farm Market Fresh, provides eligible individuals aged 60 and over with a one-time $50 benefit to purchase fruits, vegetables, and fresh herbs from participating farmers at local farmers markets. The program runs from June through November each year. This initiative helps increase access to fresh produce for older adults.
Eligibility criteria include:
The income requirements do not include the income of adult children.
Approved participants can choose to receive benefits either:
The Virginia Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program (VA SFMNP) is a wonderful opportunity to boost your health this summer. Not only will you enjoy fresh local produce, but you’ll also support your local farmers and community markets. Happy shopping and healthy eating!
(by Katherine Hall, Fairfax Area Agency on Aging)
Summer months are often a time when families are reminded of the importance of staying connected, especially for those who provide care from a distance. Long-distance caregiving can pose unique challenges, but with careful planning and communication, you can ensure your loved one receives the support they need. Effective long-distance caregiving relies on frequent and open dialogue. Utilizing technology, such as video calls and telehealth services, can be essential tools for maintaining this communication. Additionally, building a strong local support network that includes neighbors, friends, and professional services is crucial for ensuring timely intervention when issues arise. Even when long-distance, caregivers should also consider and prioritize self-care to maintain their ability to provide support. The Fairfax Area Agency on Aging offers a variety of resources and services that can be particularly helpful for long-distance caregivers. To learn more about available resources, call the Aging, Disability, and Caregiver Resources Line at 703-324-7948 or visit FairfaxCounty.gov/OlderAdults.
Virtual Dementia Friends Information Session
Wednesday, June 11, Noon-1:15 p.m.
Join this virtual presentation and learn how to become a dementia friend. Turn your new understanding of dementia into practical action that can help someone living in your community. Presented by Allegra Joffe, Supervisor with Fairfax Area Agency on Aging, and Diane Watson, Dementia Friends Champion Volunteer. Register online at bit.ly/DementiaFriendlyFairfax or call 571-407-6961.
SPY with Me with the International Spy Museum
Friday, June 13, Noon-1 p.m.
This program is offered in collaboration with The International Spy Museum Access to Spy Program. SPY with Me is an interactive, hour-long virtual program for individuals living with dementia and their care partners. Join SPY as we use music and artifacts to explore some of our favorite spy stories and to get to know each other. Register online at bit.ly/FFXDementiaSeries or call 571-407-6961.
Long Distance Caregiving and Effectively Navigating the Distance Separating You and Your Loved One
Wednesday, June 18, Noon-1 p.m.
In this virtual webinar presentation, hosted by the Fairfax Area Agency on Aging, Deme Warner, Social Worker Case Manager with ElderLink, will provide tips and support to long-distance caregivers. You are considered a long-distance caregiver if you are offering support to someone who lives more than one hour away. Although physically separated by distance, there are many ways that a long-distance caregiver remains involved in their loved one’s care. This may include the coordination of medical care and in-home support services, the management of finances, and the monitoring of overall well-being. Proactively creating a care network, having access to important documentation, and engaging in effective communication are key considerations to help you more easily navigate the miles separating you and your loved one. Caregiving for someone who does not live nearby can come with unique challenges, and this webinar will provide tips and strategies to help you remain informed, connected, and effective in your role as a long-distance caregiver. Register online at bit.ly/CAREWEB1 or call 571-407-6961.
Concert: U.S. Air Force Band Jazz Combo
Sunday, June 8, 3-4 p.m.
Sherwood Regional Library is proud to present a jazz combo made up of members of the world-famous Airmen of Note jazz ensemble. This is an in-person event, located at the Sherwood Regional Library, free of cost for the community to attend and enjoy. Learn more at bit.ly/SherwoodConcertJune.
Are you in need of additional cooling during this summer?
The Senior Cool Care Program is a public-private partnership sponsored by Dominion Energy and administered by the Virginia Department for Aging and Rehabilitative Services through the Fairfax Area Agency on Aging. The program helps low-income older adults in our jurisdiction keep cool during summer months and runs from May 1 through October 31, 2025.
The program provides fans or portable air conditioning units for eligible older adults, age 60 and older. If you are interested in the program, contact 703-324-7948.
(by Stevie Connor, Department of Family Services)
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) participants get a monthly benefit amount on an electronic benefits transfer (EBT) card, that works like a debit card. Scammers are targeting EBT cardholders nationwide. Virginia, like most states, is unable to replace missing or stolen EBT funds, so it's important to protect your card and benefits with these quick tips.
Keep your PIN secret. Do not share your PIN with anyone outside your household. Cover the keypad when you enter your PIN on a machine.
Download the ConnectEBT app (available for free on the Apple and Google app stores) to lock your EBT card from your phone after checkout.
Check your EBT account regularly for unauthorized charges. If you notice any, change your PIN immediately to stop the thief from making any new purchases by calling 1-866-281-2448.
Check card reading machines to make sure there’s nothing suspicious overlayed or attached to the card swiper or keypad. The overlays can be difficult to detect but are often bigger than the original machine and may hide parts of the machine.
Learn more from the Virginia Department of Social Services: dss.virginia.gov/benefit/EBTScam/
(by Melissa Smarr, Silver Shield Anti-Scam Campaign)
Have you recently received a text message, email, or telephone call saying that you owe money for unpaid tolls? Many people in our community have been contacted but can’t tell if these messages are legitimate. Unfortunately some people have fallen for this scam. It is called smishing, a type of scam that uses text messages to trick you into giving away your personal or financial information.
The scammers are very believable and will do almost anything to ensure you pay the fake bills. E-ZPass VA has put out an alert warning customers of this scam. Read the full alert at ezpassva.com/news-resources/news/2025/active-smishing-scam.html. E-ZPass VA encourages customers who receive a text message to report the scam message to your cell phone carrier by following this FCC guidance:
More information on protecting yourself against smishing scams can be found at fcc.gov/avoid-temptation-smishing-scams.
Tips to protect yourself from this scam include:
(by Kristin Martin, ElderLink)
ElderLink Virtual Support Call for Family Caregivers of Older Adults, via Microsoft Teams
Tuesday, June 10, 7-8 p.m.
Topic: Caregiving for Multiple Generations. Caregiving for multiple individuals such as a parent, grandparent, children or grandchildren presents unique rewards and challenges for caregivers. Caregivers may experience pride and joy in their duties while at the same time feel overwhelmed by the high demand of responsibilities. Join ElderLink’s June support call for a brief presentation and discussion with Katherine Hall from the Fairfax Area Agency on Aging Caregiver and Support Services Unit on the topic of intergenerational caregiving. Discuss rewards and challenges, as well as learning tips, and creating space for self-care. Register at tinyurl.com/CaregiverTSG or call the ElderLink Intake Line at 703-324-5374.
Exploring the Dimensions of Aging
June 2, 12, 18, Various Times
Join Inova ElderLink and the Fairfax Area Agency on Aging for online training sessions to help family and professional caregivers. Using a special training platform called Embodied Labs, you will see what it’s like to be an older adult facing real-life challenges. This unique experience will help you understand and work better with older adults and caregivers, promoting empathy, inclusivity, and fairness. After the training, you will receive a license to use the Embodied Labs platform whenever you want, so you can keep learning. To make sure everyone has a good experience, each training session will have a limited number of participants. Register at tinyurl.com/exploring-aging.
(by the Fairfax County Health Department)
Childhood lead poisoning is considered the most preventable environmental disease among young children, yet nearly half a million U.S. children have elevated blood-lead levels, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Lead is toxic to everyone, especially young children. Exposure to lead can lead to negative health impacts such as developmental delays, learning disabilities, reduced hearing, loss of appetite, behavioral issues, headaches as well as brain and kidney damage. Old paint, dust, soil, some imported candies, traditional medicines and toys are among the many common sources of lead.
The Fairfax County Health Department is holding monthly lead testing events at the Annandale Farmers Market and the Mount Vernon Farmers Market from 8 a.m.-noon. During these events, you can bring your household items for lead testing at no cost to you. Appointments are not required.
The locations and dates of the lead testing events are:
Items you can bring for testing include:
Items will be sent to a laboratory where they will be tested for lead. Please note that there is no guarantee that the items will be returned to you after they are sent off for testing. Results will be provided to you by your preferred contact method in about two weeks. You will also be given information on what the results mean and what steps you can take to protect against lead.
Learn more about the dangers of lead and what you can do to protect yourself and your family at FairfaxCounty.gov/health/environment/lead.
(by Tanya Erway, Volunteer Solutions Recruitment Coordinator)
Are you looking to make a difference this summer and throughout the year? Explore various volunteer opportunities and find the right fit for your skills and passions. Whether you’re eager to mentor, support and advocate for local youth, help reduce hunger, or help in other meaningful ways, there’s a perfect opportunity for everyone to get involved. If you don’t find a suitable match below, visit bit.ly/FFXVOLUNTEER for more options.
FACETS is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing supportive services to low-income families, children, and individuals in Fairfax County. They are seeking enthusiastic, patient, and dependable Summer Camp Mentors to inspire, lead, and create special memories for local youth. Volunteers will support campers aged 8-14, lead activities, and foster a fun, safe, and empowering environment. Volunteers are asked to commit to at least one of four sessions from June 16 to August 15, in locations including Annandale, Centreville, and Fairfax. The camp runs Monday to Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Training, field trip admission, snacks, and lunches are provided. For more details, contact Suzanne Hough at shough@facetscares.org. To learn more about this organization, visit facetscares.org.
Fairfax CASA has over forty children waiting for compassionate community members to volunteer. CASA volunteers play a crucial role in supporting and advocating for children, from newborns to young adults (0-21 years), involved in open child abuse and neglect cases in Fairfax County. To learn more, attend a virtual information session on June 5 or June 26 at 7 p.m. Help give children a voice during their hardest moments. For more information, visit fairfaxcasa.org and email volunteer@casafairfax.org to reserve your spot.
Food for Others is a nonprofit organization serving Northern Virginia, dedicated to distributing food to neighbors in need, by engaging a generous community and committed volunteers. Much of the food is sourced through food rescue operations and community drives, with staff and volunteers collecting surplus food from farmers’ markets and grocery stores. The food is then stored at their warehouse located at 2938 Prosperity Avenue, Fairfax, for distribution.
Community support is vital to the success of this program, whether through donations or volunteering in a variety of roles, including picking food up, delivering it, supporting the warehouse operations, sorting, packing, distributing, managing parking and traffic, and more. To learn more or to get involved, visit bit.ly/FFOvol, contact them at info@FoodforOthers.org or 703-207-9173.
If you wish to submit volunteer opportunities to be highlighted in a future column, contact Tanya Erway at Tanya.Erway@FairfaxCounty.gov.
(by Katie Patterson, Long-Term Care Ombudsman)
The Northern Virginia Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program (NVLTCOP) serves a diverse population of consumers receiving long-term care (LTC) services and must be able to offer appropriate and culturally competent services to resolve issues in a way that responds to each individual. As part of the NVLTCOP’s commitment to providing inclusive services, the program maintains certification as a SAGECare Platinum credentialed organization. SAGECare credentialing includes aging LGBTQ+ cultural competency training, which supports an inclusive, person-centered approach to care and furthers the mission of the NVLTCOP to promote quality of care and life for persons receiving LTC services. For more information about SAGE advocacy and services for LGBTQ+ elders visit the SAGE website at sageusa.org.
As a mandated program under the Older Americans Act, the NVLTCOP is a resident-directed program that is often called on to assist LTC residents and consumers to advocate on their behalf to protect their rights, dignity, choices, and self-determination. For more information about inclusive and person-centered care, or other nursing facility and assisted living concerns, please call the NVLTCOP at 703-324-5861, or contact the Ombudsman Program by email at NVLTCOP@fairfaxcounty.gov.
(by Linda Hernandez-Giblin, Fairfax Area Agency on Aging)
The Fairfax Area Commission on Aging (COA) is an advisory board mandated by the Older Americans Act. Commissioners for the COA are appointed by the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors and the City Councils of the City of Fairfax and the City of Falls Church.
At the May 21 COA meeting, the COA continued discussion on the implementation of the SHAPE the Future of Aging Plan and Initiative Development Committees. SHAPE Initiative Development Committee meetings will be ongoing through the duration of the Plan. There was also a presentation from the National Center to Reframe Aging. At the June 18 meeting, the COA will continue to work on the SHAPE the Future of Aging Plan.
Public Comment Opportunity
Please join the Fairfax Area Commission on Aging meeting on Wednesday, June 18, to provide input on the needs of older individuals and the Fairfax Area Plan. The Commission on Aging will meet in-person from 1-3 p.m. in Room 200/206 of the Pennino Building, which is located at 12011 Government Center Parkway, Fairfax.
(by Stevie Connor, Department of Family Services)
The warmth of summer is welcomed by many after the cold and rain of winter and spring. Hot weather can also strain cooling systems and increase your bill, which can be difficult for anyone on a limited income. The Cooling Assistance program helps pay electric bills, security deposits, cooling equipment repair costs, or purchase of a fan or air conditioning unit (window or portable) for eligible households. To be eligible, at least one household member must be: 60 or older, 5 or younger, or disabled according to Social Security, Medicaid or 100% Veteran’s Administration.
Some people will be pre-approved and others will need to apply. Applications will be accepted from June 16 – August 15 this year. To apply for Cooling Assistance, or other food and medical benefits, visit CommonHelp.Virginia.gov or call 855-635-4370.
To submit an event for the Community Calendar, email DFSGoldenGazette@FairfaxCounty.gov. All events must be received by the first day of the month prior to the issue month.
New Series of Social Events
WISE Cities is collaborating with local businesses to host free social events for older adults in the community. To learn more, email contact@wisecities.us or call 571-354-6626.
Tysons Library Book & Media "Bag" Sale
Sunday, 1 June, 10 a.m.- 5 p.m.
Tysons Pimmit Regional Library, 7584 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church
$10 for a full grocery sack or half price if less. Large selection of books and media.
Nova ScriptsCentral Presentation on "Men’s Health Month"
Tuesday, June 3, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Wellness Center for Older Adults, 4027B Olley Lane, Fairfax
Join us for a free interactive workshop focusing on the unique health challenges men face. We’ll cover preventive care, heart health, mental well-being, prostate health, and healthy lifestyle habits to encourage men to take an active role in their health. Call 703-970-3601 to reserve a seat.
Saving Claire Falls Prevention Project
Tuesday, June 3, 1:30-3 p.m.
Reston Hospital Center, Pavilion II, 2nd Floor, Conference Room A,1850 Town Center Parkway, Reston
Join us for a screening of the documentary, followed by a Q&A with expert panelists to provide guidance on how to prevent falls and enhance your ability to age at home safely. Park in Parking Garage B then go left towards the Pavilion II entrance. For more information, call 703-949-9670.
Dance for Brain Health
Thursdays, 11:15 a.m.-Noon
Wellness Center for Older Adults, 4027B Olley Lane, Fairfax
Research shows that exercise is good for the brain and dance has the added dimensions of rhythm, balance and music that enhance the benefits of simple movement – plus, it’s fun! This free class is appropriate for people living with dementia, their caregivers and anyone interested in preventing cognitive decline. Call 703-970-3601 to reserve a spot.
Take A Break Concert Series
Thursdays, 7-8:30 p.m.
Halley Rise, 2025 Fulton Place, Reston
Join Reston Community Center for unforgettable summer evenings filled with vibrant music from talented artists. June 5 - Texas Chainsaw Horns: Rock & Traditional Blues; June 12 - Oasis Band: Reggae; June 19 - King Teddy: Swing; June 26 - Ocho de Bastos: Latin & Pop Rock. For more information, call 703-390-6159 or visit restoncommunitycenter.com/tag/take-a-break-concerts/
Healthy Together Fairfax
Sunday, June 8, Noon-3 p.m.
Franconia Park, 6601 Telegraph Rd, Alexandria
Get ready for a fun, FREE, and interactive community event focused on healthy and active living! Bring your family and friends to enjoy health screenings, fitness classes, hands-on learning experiences, and much more. Visit www.healthytogetherfairfax.com for the most up-to-date event information.
Stop the Bleed
Tuesday, June 10, 10-11:30 a.m.
Reston Hospital Center, Pavilion II, 2nd Floor, Conf. Room A, 1850 Town Center Parkway, Reston
In this 90-minute in-person course, you will learn the lifesaving skills needed to prevent the number one cause of death after an injury: bleeding. Learn more and register at hcavirginia.com/calendar.
Unpacking Gender: How to Talk to Kids and Teens (Two Instances)
Tuesday, June 10, 6:30-8:30 p.m.
Chantilly Regional Library, 4000 Stringfellow Rd., Chantilly
Learn more and register at librarycalendar.fairfaxcounty.gov/event/14525771.
Wednesday, June 18, 6:30-8:30 p.m.
Sherwood Regional Library, 2501 Sherwood Hall Ln., Alexandria
Learn more and register at librarycalendar.fairfaxcounty.gov/event/14525770.
We will discuss the impact gender roles and stereotypes have on everyone and how this knowledge can help us prevent violence. This workshop is aimed at parents, guardians, family members, and other caregivers interested in learning how to talk about gender with the children, teens, and young adults in their life. Registration is encouraged but not required.
Memory Screenings
Monday, June 16, 9 a.m.-2 p.m.
Wellness Center for Older Adults, 4027B Olley Lane, Fairfax
Insight Memory Care Center offers free, in-person, confidential memory screenings to people with concerns about their memory or who want to check their memory now for future comparison. Call 703-970-3601 to reserve a 30-minute appointment.
Caregiving Challenges for LGBTQ+ Older Adults
Tuesday, June 17, 7-8 p.m.
Hosted by Insight Memory Care Center. This virtual class will explore the specific caregiving challenges faced by LGBTQ+ older adults, with a focus on how caregivers can provide the most effective support. Learn more and register at insightmcc.org/get-involved/events.
Dates, prices, and times are correct at publishing. However, please confirm information using the phone numbers or websites provided.
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*Fairfax County is committed to nondiscrimination on the basis of disability in all county programs, services and activities. To request reasonable accommodations or to receive this information in an alternate format, call 703-324-7948 or TTY 711.