Department of Family Services Alert:
It’s Time to Flip the Script on Aging!
Every year during the month of May, we celebrate Older Americans Month. This annual recognition is a time to reflect on aging well in society, examine our biases and thoughts about aging, and work to identify and address the diverse needs of older adults in our community. Read more.
Help Pets Stay with Their Families by Donating to Our Pet Supply Drive!
Sometimes, people must make the difficult decision to surrender their pet to the animal shelter. There are many reasons why pets are surrendered, such as when a pet guardian can no longer care for their pet, or a family moves out of the country. In cases where a pet guardian is considering surrendering their pet due to financial hardship, there are services and resources available from the Fairfax County Animal Shelter to help pets remain with the people they love. Read more.
Five Ways to Support Mental Health Awareness
Help is available for people of any age with mental health concerns. It’s never too late to focus on wellness and reduce stress. The impact of a mental health concern on an older adult’s physical health can be severe. Depression is associated with conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and stroke. Loneliness and social isolation are also linked to serious health conditions. Read more.
Caregivers of Older Adults Can Find Support and Build Connections During ElderLink’s Monthly Virtual Support Calls
Caregivers are often the unsung heroes who provide essential support to family members and loved ones who are experiencing chronic conditions, navigating the aging process or who are unable to care for themselves. Caregivers can often find themselves in a complex emotional and physical position, balancing their own well-being with the needs of those they care for. With the constant demands that caregiving entails, caregivers may be left feeling isolated, overwhelmed and unsure where to turn for support. It is no secret that despite the many rewards the caregiving journey can bring, challenges are a natural part of the process as well. Read more.
(by Gwen Jones, Department of Family Services)
May is Adult Abuse Prevention Month, created to raise awareness of the issue and educate people how to spot the signs of abuse and report it. Adult abuse can take several forms – neglect, financial exploitation, self-neglect, and physical abuse or sexual abuse. According to the Virginia Department for Aging and Rehabilitative Services, these are the signs and risks to look for if you suspect abuse.
Neglect includes failures by caregivers to support the physical, emotional and social needs of adults dependent on others for their care and well-being. Neglect can take the form of not providing adequate food, medications, or personal care to the adult.
Signs of neglect include bedsores, lack of needed supervision, lack of food or inadequate food, soiled bedding, an untreated medical condition, inappropriate or inadequate clothing, and dehydration.
Risk factors of neglect include excessive caregiver stress, a lack of resources and support for the caregiver, a sudden increase in caregiver responsibilities, isolation of the caregiver and vulnerable adult, and a worsening health condition of the adult.
Financial exploitation includes the misuse, mishandling or exploitation of property, possessions, or assets of adults. It also includes using another’s assets without consent, under false pretense, or through coercion and/or manipulation.
Signs of financial exploitation include unusual financial activity, missing checks or bank statements/records, address or name changes on accounts, purchases made without the adult’s knowledge or consent, new signatures on accounts or forged signatures, evidence that the person fell victim to a scam, missing valuables, changes to a financial power of attorney, and a change of ownership of bank accounts or the deed to a physical property such as a home.
Risk factors of financial exploitation include a change in an adult’s or caregiver’s financial circumstances, little to no oversight of finances, discomfort with technology or modern payment methods, cognitive impairment or dementia, and social isolation.
Self-Neglect is when an adult is unable to meet their own essential physical, psychological, or social needs, which threatens their health, safety, and well-being.
Signs of self-neglect include an untreated medical condition, medication not taken as prescribed, hazardous housing conditions or a home lacking heat, electricity or running water, poor personal hygiene, an animal or insect infested residence, and accumulated newspapers, garbage or debris in the home.
Risk factors of self-neglect include a loss of spouse or intimate partner, worsening medical condition, physical disability, social isolation, lack of a caregiver, and cognitive impairment or dementia.
Physical abuse may include slapping, hitting, beating, bruising or causing someone physical pain, injury or suffering. This also could include confining an adult against their will. Sexual abuse includes physical force, threats, or coercion to facilitate non-consensual sexual activities.
Signs of physical or sexual abuse include unexplained bruising, strangulation, fractures, burns, a fear of the caregiver, over or under medicating the adult, genital injury, infection or scarring.
Risk factors of physical or sexual abuse include a caregiver with a substance use disorder, violence or conflict in the home, social isolation, and cognitive impairment or dementia.
In Fairfax County, Adult Protective Services investigates reports of abuse, neglect, or exploitation of adults and our goal is to protect older adults and incapacitated adults. Reports of abuse, neglect or exploitation can be made by calling 703-324-7450, TTY 711. Reports can be filed for people who live alone, with relatives, or who are residents in nursing homes, assisted living facilities, hospitals, or group homes. Learn more about Adult Protective Services by visiting FairfaxCounty.gov/familyservices/older-adults/adult-protective-services.
(by Katherine Hall, Fairfax Area Agency on Aging)
May is a vital time to recognize the emotional well-being of family caregivers during Mental Health Awareness Month. Caregivers often face immense stress and burnout while providing care for their loved ones. In Fairfax County, the Area Agency on Aging offers valuable resources to assist family caregivers in managing their mental health. Through support groups, counseling services, and educational workshops, the agency helps caregivers navigate the complexities of their roles while prioritizing their mental wellness. By taking advantage of these resources, caregivers in Fairfax County can find solace, strength, and a supportive community to help them maintain their mental health and continue providing compassionate care to their family members. To learn more about caregiving resources, call our Aging, Disability, and Caregiver Resource Line at 703-324-7948 or visit FairfaxCounty.gov/OlderAdults.
Journaling for Caregiver Well-Being
Friday, May 9, Noon-1 p.m.
In this virtual health and wellness workshop, hosted by the Fairfax Area Agency on Aging, join Deborah Ross, LPC, Certified Journal Therapist, for a journaling workshop. Decades of research have established journaling as a significant tool to lower stress and enhance well-being. For the best outcome, it matters greatly how one writes. Deborah will introduce some best practices, dispel some myths, and suggest tips, tools, and strategies so that your journal is a supportive companion on this caregiving journey. Please bring some writing tools along with your curiosity and learn how much support is available from the page. No prior journaling experience is necessary. Register online at bit.ly/StayingWell-123 or call 571-407-6961.
Nutritious & Delicious: Versatile Lunch Recipes for Vibrant Aging
Friday, May 16, Noon-1 p.m.
In this virtual health and wellness workshop, hosted by the Fairfax Area Agency on Aging (FAAA), join Tori Gwilliam, a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and Nutrition Supervisor at the FAAA, for a cooking and nutrition workshop. Elevate the diet for yourself and those you care for with nutritious, delicious, and easy-to-prepare lunches. Learn tips to enhance health and well-being through balanced, flavorful meals. Discover essential nutrients that support healthy aging. Gain valuable tips on meal prepping, storing ingredients, and incorporating produce to make healthy eating convenient and enjoyable. Find out how to use versatile, nutrient-dense ingredients to create a variety of lunch recipes. Register online at bit.ly/StayingWell-123 or call 571-407-6961.
The Plan You Need: Legal Essentials for the Care of Aging and Disabled Adults
Wednesday, May 21, Noon-1 p.m.
In this virtual webinar presentation, hosted by the Fairfax Area Agency on Aging, Elizabeth M. Crego, Elder Law Practice Group Chair with Legal Services of Northern Virginia (LSNV), will provide insights into the critical legal planning necessary for family caregivers of older adults and people with disabilities. Learn about the essential documents you need, such as a power of attorney and advance directive, and how to navigate the legal options, including guardianship, if you lack those legal documents. Gain the tools and information you need to manage your caregiving responsibilities effectively and legally and to protect and advocate for your loved ones. Register online at bit.ly/CAREWEB1 or call 571-407-6961.
In-Person Dementia Friendly Information Session
Wednesday, May 21, 3:30-4:45 p.m.
Join this in-person presentation at the Herndon Fortnightly Library 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 Jessica Fredricksen, Dementia Friends Champion Volunteer. Register online at bit.ly/HerndonDFF or call 703-246-3514.
Adaptive Stretching & Breathing: Simple Techniques for Daily Wellness
Friday, May 23, Noon-1 p.m.
In this virtual health and wellness workshop, hosted by the Fairfax Area Agency on Aging, join Emery Bryant, yoga instructor at Missouri State University, for a live virtual workshop designed to help family caregivers discover the benefits of gentle movement and breathwork. This interactive session will introduce simple, adaptable stretching and breathing techniques that promote relaxation, ease tension, and support overall well-being. Whether you’re a caregiver looking for stress relief or someone seeking gentle movement for improved comfort and mobility, this class is for you. No special equipment or prior experience is needed, just a chair and a willingness to move and breathe. Register online at bit.ly/StayingWell-123 or call 571-407-6961.
Connecting to Well-Being Through Meditation: A Guide for Family Caregivers
Friday, May 30, Noon-1 p.m.
In this virtual health and wellness workshop, hosted by the Fairfax Area Agency on Aging, join Jodi Supanich, Licensed Tergar Anytime Anywhere Meditation Teacher, for guided mediation. Jodi will guide family caregivers through the basic principles of meditation, offering practical techniques to connect to well-being in everyday life. Participants will learn how to incorporate simple yet effective meditation practices into their daily routines through their innate capacities for presence, kindness and curiosity. The session will also cover the science behind meditation’s benefits, helping caregivers understand how and why these practices can improve physical, mental, and emotional health. By the end of the webinar, caregivers will have a toolkit of meditation strategies tailored to meet the unique challenges they face, empowering them to provide better care for their loved ones while also taking care of themselves. Register online at bit.ly/StayingWell-123 or call 571-407-6961.
(by Kristin Martin, ElderLink)
Walk with Ease
Thursdays, May 8-June 12, 10-11 a.m.
Free. This program, created by the Arthritis Foundation, allows you to walk at your own pace three times a week. We will meet weekly via MS Teams to discuss successes and challenges, encourage one another, and learn information to stay healthy. Receive a free guidebook and access to online resources. Contact Deme Warner at 703-237-6027 or visit tinyurl.com/ElderLinkWWE to register.
ElderLink Virtual Support Call for Family Caregivers of Older Adults
Tuesday, May 13, 7-8 p.m.
Topic: Compassionate Care During Cognitive Changes. Alzheimer’s Disease, Dementia and/or other general cognitive changes can have an acute effect on communication and processing, emotional well-being, and the ability to complete activities of daily living. As caregivers we may have to shift our communication and caregiving style to effectively support cognitive changes. Join ElderLink's May support call as we use an immersive training platform to gain greater insight and perspective into learning how cognitive changes may impact communication and functional abilities. The call will be hosted on MS Teams. To register, visit tinyurl.com/CaregiverTSG or call 703-324-5374.
Exploring the Dimensions of Aging
Friday, May 9; Friday, May 16; Thursday, May 22; Times vary.
Join Inova ElderLink in partnership with the Fairfax Area Agency on Aging for virtual training sessions to benefit family and professional caregivers. Through the use of an immersive training platform, Embodied Labs, you will “see through the eyes” of older adults who are facing real-life challenges to their well-being. Engage in a unique experience to gain greater perspective and insight into working with older adults and caregivers, and help to promote greater empathy, inclusivity, and equity to all. Following the training, participants will receive a license to access the Embodied Labs platform on demand, providing the opportunity for continued learning. For the best user experience, the number of participants in each training session is limited. Register online at tinyurl.com/exploring-aging.
(by Katie Patterson, Long-Term Care Ombudsman)
The Northern Virginia Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program (NVLTCOP) was recognized at the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors meeting on March 18 with a proclamation in honor of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) month. Fairfax County traditionally celebrates ADR Month in March, and each year chooses a leader in this field to recognize. ADR includes different methods to handle and solve conflicts without going to court. These methods help people reach agreements that work for everyone involved, save money, and improve communication and morale. The NVLTCOP is honored to receive this recognition for the hard work and dedication shown by its staff and volunteers and grateful to the residents and their families who trust the NVLTCOP to advocate on their behalf.
As a mandated program under the Older Americans Act, the NVLTCOP is often called on to assist residents and consumers to advocate for their rights to ensure quality of care and quality of life while receiving long term care (LTC) from nursing homes, assisted livings or community-based services. For more information about the NVLTCOP 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 Tanya Erway, Volunteer Solutions Recruitment Coordinator)
Spring brings renewal and fresh opportunities. Are you ready to engage in a new volunteer role? Explore the volunteer options listed below or visit bit.ly/FFXVOLUNTEER for more options.
ACCA (Annandale Christian Community for Action) provides day care, food, rental assistance, furniture, and other services to low-income families in the Annandale and Bailey’s Crossroads region. Volunteers perform nearly all of ACCA’s work. Schedules are flexible and many tasks can be done from home. There’s also a big need for drivers (with their own vehicles) to deliver groceries to local families, and food captains. All recipients of these services are screened and referred to ACCA by social service agencies. Learn more about their opportunities at bit.ly/ACCACares or email volunteers@accacares.org.
Bring healthy, fresh food to your neighborhood by volunteering with the FCPA Farmers’ Markets! The Fairfax County Park Authority is searching for volunteers to ensure their ten farmers’ markets run smoothly this season. Responsibilities include setting out signs and cones, setting up and staffing the Market Information tent, directing vendors to their assigned spots, enforcing market rules and answering questions from customers. This is for people who like spending time outdoors, engaging with their community, and helping support local farms and small businesses. Weekday and weekend opportunities are available, depending on the location: Annandale, Burke, Herndon, Kingstowne, Lorton, Mount Vernon, McLean, Oakton, and Reston. Contact Elizabeth.Moore@FairfaxCounty.gov or call 571-340-3322 for more information.
The Adapted Aquatics program needs volunteers of all ages to provide encouragement and assistance to children and adults with physical and/or intellectual disabilities. Depending on location, certified instructors coach everything from basic swimming and water safety skills to swim team practice for Special Olympics. Volunteers will get into the pool and must have basic swimming skills, commit to a few hours per week and be at least 14 years of age. Each session lasts 6 to 10 weeks. Classes are offered on weekends at most of the Fairfax County recreation centers. Apply online at bit.ly/FCPAqua or contact Linda Crone at Linda.Crone2@fairfaxcounty.gov to learn more.
Fairfax County Public Libraries need skilled volunteers for Fix-It Clinics on Saturday, May 10, 1-5 p.m. Help community members who bring in small household objects, clothing, jewelry, and more for repairs. They need volunteers skilled in electrical repair, fabric mending, small appliance repair, jewelry repair and more. Clinics will be held at multiple branches across the county. Go to bit.ly/FCPLfixit, select your preferred location, and “volunteer at this clinic” to sign up for a shift. Contact Sara.Prohaska@FairfaxCounty.gov with questions.
If you wish to submit volunteer opportunities for a future column, contact Tanya Erway at VolunteerSolutionsRecruitment@FairfaxCounty.gov.
(by Gwen Jones, Department of Family Services)
The non-profit Shepherd's Centers are sponsored by local area congregations, corporate partners, community groups, and individuals to serve adults 50 and older. The centers offer free transportation for medical appointments and non-medical needs (e.g. grocery shopping) for adults 50+ who live in their center’s service area and are able to independently get in and out of a car.
Shepherd's Centers need volunteers! Drivers are needed and can accept ride requests that work with their schedule. There are also other ways you can help. Contact the Shepherd’s Center near you to learn more about volunteer opportunities:
(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 April 16 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. At the May 21 meeting, the COA will have a presentation from the National Center to Reframe Aging. The COA will also continue to work on the SHAPE the Future of Aging Plan.
In Person: Pennino Building, 12011 Government Center Pkwy, Fairfax – Room 206/200
To obtain meeting materials, visit FairfaxCounty.gov/familyservices/older-adults/fairfax-area-commission-on-aging/meetings or contact Linda.Hernandez-Giblin@FairfaxCounty.gov or call 703-324-5859. For ADA accommodations, contact Linda.Hernandez-Giblin@FairfaxCounty.gov or call 571-407-6960, TTY 711.
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 p.m. to 3 p.m. in room 200/206 of the Pennino Building, which is located at 12011 Government Center Parkway, Fairfax VA 22305.
(by Ellen Volo, Fairfax County Opioid Response Manager, and Gwen Jones, Department of Family Services)
In Fairfax County, more people die from drug overdoses than car accidents. Many fatal overdoses in Fairfax involve opioids, which are a class of drugs that include synthetic opioids such as fentanyl; pain relievers available legally by prescription, such as oxycodone (OxyContin®), hydrocodone (Vicodin®), codeine, and morphine; the illegal drug heroin; and many others. Use of opioids, either by themselves or in combination with other drugs, is a major driver of the national drug overdose crisis. Like communities across the nation, in recent years, over 95% of opioid overdose deaths in the Fairfax Health District (including Fairfax County and the cities of Fairfax and Falls Church) have involved illicitly manufactured fentanyl. Though nationally and locally, fatal drug opioid overdoses are trending lower than previous years, there are still far too many.
Everyone in the community can help to reduce opioid overdoses. Here are a few ways you can make a difference:
If you have been prescribed opioids or other painkillers, it is important to keep these powerful drugs, as well as other prescribed medications, from being accidentally ingested by keeping them out of reach of children or misused by others by securing them in a lock box. Devices can be purchased from retailers, or you can request a free medication lock box from the Fairfax-Fall Church Community Services Board (CSB). Learn more at FairfaxCounty.gov/community-services-board/prevention/lock-and-talk.
If you have expired, unwanted or unused medicines in your home, there are free, convenient, confidential and safe disposal options – available year-round – in Fairfax County. Disposing them properly will help prevent misuse, accidental poisonings and protect the environment. Learn more at FairfaxCounty.gov/health/drug-disposal.
Watch a 10-minute video (available in English and Spanish) on how to recognize the signs of an overdose and administer naloxone (the medication that reverses an opioid overdose). You can also sign up for a free, virtual class – or request an in-person training for your group – on what to do during an opioid overdose emergency, how to administer naloxone and what to do afterward. Upon successful completion of the training, residents of Fairfax County and the Cities of Fairfax and Falls Church can receive a free box of naloxone upon request. Go to bit.ly/revive-csb to learn more and register for an upcoming training.
Never share your prescription medication with others.
Learn more about opioids, including fentanyl, and what Fairfax County is doing to combat the crisis by visiting FairfaxCounty.gov/topics/opioids.
(by Fairfax County Department of Public Works and Environmental Services)
A textile recycling pilot program has been launched in Fairfax County. In partnership with a New Jersey-based company called Helpsy, the Department of Public Works and Environmental Services Solid Waste Management Program is implementing the pilot to provide residents with a convenient way to recycle unwanted textiles. Helpsy is dedicated to extending the life of clothing and reducing textile waste. Items accepted include clothing, shoes, and household fabrics.
Items can be dropped off at the new blue collection bins located next to the Recycling Loop at the I-66 Transfer Station, located at 4618 West Ox Road, Fairfax. Drop-off hours are Monday-Friday, 7 a.m.-5 p.m., and Saturday-Sunday, 7 a.m.-4 p.m. It’s near where residents also can drop off recyclable materials and food scraps for composting.
Textile waste is one of the fastest-growing waste streams in the United States, yet 95% of discarded textiles can be reused or recycled. By participating in the program, residents help reduce waste, conserve resources, and support sustainability efforts within the community, which align with the county’s Zero Waste Plan that includes, in part, recycling, reuse and recovery.
Residents can drop off their textiles at the designated blue bins at the I-66 Transfer Station. Items collected through the program are either:
The program accepts a wide range of textiles, including:
All dropped-off donations must be clean, dry, odor-free, and in a securely closed plastic bag.
The Textile Recycling Pilot will end this summer. After staff evaluate the pilot, the program may continue with additional donation locations added throughout the county.
(by Gwen Jones, Department of Family Services)
People who live in hoarding conditions often think their living situation is just a bit messy. They might not realize that it can actually be very dangerous for their health and safety, as well as for their pets, neighbors, and emergency responders. Living in such a home can make everyday activities like cooking and sleeping difficult. In severe cases, the living conditions can lead to health problems due to poor sanitation and air quality. It can also be hard to escape during a fire or emergency, and it can make it difficult for emergency responders to help during a medical crisis.
People living in hoarded homes might not be able to take regular showers, use a working toilet, or wash their clothes. They might not be able to maintain their homes, leading to a loss of running water, heat, or refrigeration. The home can get so dirty that it attracts pests like flies, mice, and cockroaches. Dust mites can also become a problem, causing allergies and asthma attacks.
Homes filled with lots of stuff don't have good ventilation. This can lead to moisture buildup, which creates a breeding ground for bacteria, mold, and mildew. These can cause allergic reactions and infections. Outside, piles of items can collect standing water, which serve as breeding grounds for mosquitoes that can spread diseases like West Nile virus.
People living in hoarded homes are at a high risk of injury or death in case of a fire, but they often don't realize it. These homes are usually filled with flammable materials, making fires spread quickly and become very hot and hard to control. Items might be stored too close to heat sources, like furnaces or electrical panels, creating a severe fire hazard.
Another major danger is blocked pathways. It can be difficult to get in, move around, and get out of the house. Windows are often blocked too. Hoarded homes often lack working smoke detectors, so residents have no warning when there is a fire.
These conditions also put firefighters at greater risk. Blocked exits can trap firefighters inside, and the clutter makes it hard for them to move around and do their job effectively. There's also a higher risk of the building collapsing during a fire.
A hoarded home can also make it hard for emergency workers to respond to medical crises. Patients who can't move or are unconscious can't be quickly moved or hooked up to medical equipment. Cluttered rooms don't have enough space to treat patients. Emergency responders might need to turn off the power to avoid electrical hazards but could find the electrical panel blocked by possessions.
Hoarding can also cause serious damage to a home’s structure. When floors and attics are overloaded with stuff, they can start to sag. This can lead to cracked floor joists or roof trusses, weakened load-bearing walls, wall movement, broken foundations, and in extreme cases, partial collapse of the home. This structural damage is dangerous not only for the people living in the home but also for emergency responders and nearby buildings or townhouses.
Besides health, safety, and structural risks, hoarding disorder can harm a person’s relationships and emotional well-being. Many people with hoarding disorder eventually stop inviting friends and family over, which can lead to stress, depression, and social isolation. If family members do not understand that hoarding disorder is a mental condition, it can cause disagreements and misunderstandings, leading to family estrangement.
In Fairfax County, the Department of Code Compliance deals with hoarding complaints. Their investigators focus on three main areas.
The first area is eliminating life safety issues. Investigators work with the people living in the home to clear pathways by moving or getting rid of items blocking windows, doorways, or walkways. They also work to restore utilities like heat, electricity, and water to make sure the home is safe and clean. Finally, they make sure there are working smoke detectors in the home.
The second area is ensuring the structural stability of the home. Large piles of stuff can be very heavy and might damage the home. Code Compliance works with the residents to prevent this from happening.
The third area is improving quality of life. Investigators make sure there are working facilities for personal hygiene, such as at least one working toilet, shower, and sink. They also try to improve sanitation by removing trash and animal waste and improving air circulation in the home.
If you know someone living in a hoarding situation and are concerned about their health and safety, you can make a complaint to Code Compliance by calling 703-324-1300, TTY 711, or visiting plus.fairfaxcounty.gov/CitizenAccess/Welcome.aspx.
In the June issue of the Golden Gazette, we will explore the topic of Animal Hoarding. Learn the signs of animal hoarding, the risks to people, animals, and the community; who to contact if you suspect animal hoarding; and how Fairfax County addresses cases of suspected animal hoarding.
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.
Dance for Brain Health
Thursdays, 11:15 a.m.-Noon
Wellness Center for Older Adults, 4027B Olley Lane, Fairfax
Areas of the brain that control memory and skills such as planning and organizing improve with exercise. This free class is for people living with dementia, their caregivers and anyone interested in preventing cognitive decline. Register at 703-970-3601.
Computer Skills Series
Fridays, May 2, 16, 23, 30, 11:45 a.m.-12:45 p.m.
Hosted by the Virtual Center for Active Adults. Topics: May 2 - Scams: Using Telehealth; May 16 - Best Travel Apps; May 23 - Beyond Android Basics; May 30 - Gmail. For more information, visit bit.ly/novaVCAA; To join the virtual presentation on Zoom visit bit.ly/VCAAzoom2; Meeting ID: 905 123 5932 Password: 3636
55+ Wellness & Safety Expo
Friday, May 9, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
Vienna Community Center, 120 Cherry St. SE
Sponsored by Vienna Parks and Recreation, this free event features over 40 vendors, health screenings, giveaways, and more.
Women’s Club of Springfield Craft and Vendor Spring Faire
Saturday, May 10, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, 8304 Old Keene Mill Road, Springfield
Proceeds Benefit Bethany House Services. For more information, visit womansclubofspringfield.org.
CarFit
Wednesday, May 14, 9 a.m.-Noon (by appointment)
Reston Hospital Center, Main Entrance Loop, 1850 Town Center Parkway, Reston
CarFit is an educational program that ensures people have the proper fit inside their vehicle. You will receive information and resources from trained experts on how to enhance your safety and comfort in the driver's seat of your vehicle. Register at hcavirginia.com/calendar or email jamie.weaver@hcahealthcare.com.
Keys to Vital Aging
Wednesday, May 14, 7-8 p.m.
Sherwood Regional Library, 2501 Sherwood Hall Lane, Alexandria
Presentation by fitness expert Donna Welch on how to help address some of the challenges of aging and explore practical solutions. For more information, visit librarycalendar.fairfaxcounty.gov/event/14334002.
Historic Fairfax City, Inc. Membership Meeting
Wednesday, May 14, 7-8 p.m.
Civil War Interpretive Center at Historic Blenheim 3610 Blenheim Blvd, Fairfax
Free event. You do not have to be an HFCI member to attend. The guest speaker is Dr. Missy Cummings, Professor and Director of GMU’s new Mason Autonomy and Robotics Center. She will speak on the topic of, "The Promises and Perils of AI." Visit historicfairfax.org for more information.
Lunch n' Life Shepherd's Center of Fairfax-Burke
Thursday, May 15, Noon-2 p.m.
Fairfax-Presbyterian Church, 10723 Main St., Fairfax
Rev. Henry G. Brinton, Pastor and Author returns to discuss his new locally set novel, "War Bug." $15 free includes lunch and program. Reservations are due by Friday, May 9. For reservations and more information, visit scfbva.org or call 703-323-4788.
Job Search Workshop by AARP
Friday, May 16, 9:30 a.m. Coffee; 9:45 a.m. Presentation
Stacy C. Sherwood Community Center, 3740 Blenheim Boulevard, Fairfax
Topic: "Get Tips on Getting the Job." Sponsored by Fairfax Village in the City. Register by calling 703-385-5738 or email at village@fairfaxva.gov.
Clifton Community Woman’s Club (CCWC) 48th Homes Tour
Friday, May 16, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Annual fundraiser benefitting CCWC’s Charitable Trust. Tour four homes in the Clifton/Fairfax Station area and the Cloverleaf Equine Center. Visit Clifton Presbyterian Church for a vendor fair, silent auction, and refreshments. Tickets: $35/advance, $40/door and $10/one home. Visit cliftoncwc.org for more details or email info@cliftoncwc.org.
Memory Screenings
Monday, May 19, 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 and educational materials 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.
Musical Memory Bingo: Classic Country
Friday, May 23, Noon-1 p.m.
Burke Centre Library. 5935 Freds Oak Road, Burke
Listen to songs from the age of classic County and see if you can guess and recognize your way to BINGO! Work as a group or solo. Prizes will be given. Register at tinyurl.com/5n8ccrsy.
Friends of Richard Byrd Library Book Sale
Wednesday, May 28- Sunday, June 1
Richard Byrd Library, 7250 Commerce Street, Springfield
Preview sale, Wed, 2-5 p.m. Entry fee $10. General sale, Thu-Sat, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Bag sale, Sun,12-2 p.m. $5/bag. Choose from a wide variety of high-quality used books, CDs, and DVDs. Questions? Contact the Friends at rbfriends@gmail.com.
Senior Movie Day Featuring Priscilla
Wednesday, May 28, Doors-9 a.m., Movie-10 a.m.
LOOK Cinemas at Reston Town Center, 11940 Market Street, Reston
Reston Association presents Senior Movie Day, free for people 55+. Free coffee, donuts, OJ, and door prizes. Registration is not required. For more information, visit reston.org/Calendar.
Stepping Out
Friday, May 30, 7 p.m., Saturday, May 31, 7:30 p.m.
Richard J. Ernst Theater, NOVA Campus, 8333 Little River Turnpike, Annandale
Encore Theatrical Arts Project presents the best of Broadway in Stepping Out, a stunning song-and-dance revue! Tickets are $27-40. For more information, call 703-222-5511 or visit encore-tap.org.
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.