Department of Family Services Alert:
Sheila Consaul: Preserving History Through Restoration
Sheila Consaul has always been fascinated by historic properties. She loves the architecture, design details, and craftsmanship only found in old buildings. After spending 15 years restoring a historic lighthouse in Ohio to use as her summer home, Sheila applied to Fairfax County Park Authority’s Resident Curator Program. Now, one year into her tenure as resident curator of Ash Grove, a historic home in Vienna, she has made significant progress restoring and preserving an important piece of Fairfax County history. Read more.
SHAPE the Future of Aging: Year Three
SHAPE the Future of Aging is a strategic plan to support aging well in the Fairfax Area. At the June Older Adults Committee meeting, we shared the latest progress on the SHAPE Plan with the Board of Supervisors. SHAPE guides our work to support older adults, caregivers, and adults with disabilities in Fairfax County. It also helps our community partners as they plan programs and services. The plan aligns with the Countywide Strategic Plan and One Fairfax. Read more.
Why More Older Adults Are Gathering Around the Table — and Loving Every Minute of It
Walk into a community center, library, or neighborhood café these days and you just might hear it: the unmistakable click-clack of Mahjongg tiles, followed by laughter, storytelling, and the occasional triumphant shout of “Mah Jongg!” Read more.
Donate, Don’t Trash, These Used but Useful Items
Have you ever driven through a neighborhood the night before trash day and marveled at all the good-quality, usable items sitting on the curb waiting to be picked up? We often throw away things that can be useful to others, not sure what else to do with them. Before you put something on the curb for the trash truck, stop and ask yourself if it can be donated. In addition to helping someone in need, you will also keep items out of the landfill. Read more.
Print and mailed copies will no longer be available after July 2026, so sign up for the digital version!
In accordance with the Fairfax County FY 2027 Adopted Budget, beginning with the August 2026 edition, the Golden Gazette will only be offered online as:
A free monthly newsletter delivered to your email.
For IT assistance, call Volunteer Solutions IT On-Call team at 703-324-5406 or email VolunteerSolutions@FairfaxCounty.gov.
The digital Golden Gazette will continue.
Sign up for the email version today!
(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 Fairfax Area Commission on Aging 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 June 17 COA meeting, the COA discussed the implementation of the SHAPE the Future of Aging Plan and Initiative Development Committees (IDC). SHAPE IDC meetings will be ongoing through the duration of the plan. They also heard a presentation on the Fairfax Area Agency on Aging (AAA), Area Plan. On July 15, the COA will hear a presentation on No Wrong Door Virginia, which has a mission to “improve access to streamlined, person-centered services for older adults, individuals with disabilities, veterans, and caregivers – strengthening communities and enhancing lives across the Commonwealth.” The Fairfax AAA is an advisory council for No Wrong Door Virginia.
COA Meeting - Wednesday, July 15, 1 p.m.
In Person: Heritage Building, 7611 Little River Turnpike, Annandale – Room 419 West
To learn more about the meeting and obtain meeting materials, visit bit.ly/FXCOA or contact Linda.Hernandez-Giblin@FairfaxCounty.gov or call 703-324-5859. For ADA accommodations, contact Linda.Hernandez-Giblin@FairfaxCounty.gov or call 703-324-5859, TTY 711.
(by Karen Goff, Neighborhood and Community Services)
Some of the area’s most innovative high school STEM students were honored in May for creating devices or apps that will improve the lives of older adults or adults with disabilities.
The participants, finalists in the annual Fairfax Area High School Shark Tank Technology Challenge, spent months researching, planning, creating and testing their inventions. The students were honored in a ceremony at the Fairfax County Government Center on May 19, 2026. The finalists also received cash awards from sponsor INTEGRITYOnePartners to help further their project implementation.
The place winners and finalists were recognized at the reception by Karmentrina Kearse, Shark Tank Challenge Coordinator; Walter Alcorn, Hunter Mill Supervisor; Pallas Washington, Fairfax County Neighborhood and Community Services Deputy Director; and Pete Lamont, INTEGRITYOne Partners CEO (event sponsor).
After the reception, Lamont accepted a proclamation from the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors honoring the 10th annual event and its impact on youth STEM skills, mentorship, and wellness and assistance for older adults.
Winning first place was Meghana Nannapaneni from Chantilly High School with Sage4Health. Sage4Health is dedicated to promoting cognitive wellness and reducing social isolation among seniors. It aims to empower seniors to confidently manage their cognitive and emotional wellness while simultaneously alleviating caregiver burden and fostering greater social connection.
Partners for the challenge include Fairfax County’s Neighborhood and Community Services, the Fairfax County Department of Family Services Fairfax Area Agency on Aging, the Commission on Aging, George Mason’s Kellar Institute and INTEGRITYOne Partners.
Judges were Pete Lamont (INTEGRITYOne Partners), Korey Singleton (George Mason University), NCS Tech Educators Ronaldo Muradez and Ramin Ghodoumipour, and Amanda Smedley (ServiceSource).
Read more about the finalists and their projects in the program: bit.ly/2026SharkTank.
Learn more about the Shark Tank Technology Challenge: FairfaxCounty.gov/neighborhood-community-services/shark-tank-tech-challenge.
See more reception photos in NCS’ Flickr Album: bit.ly/2026SharkAlbum.
(by Katie Patterson, Long-Term Care Ombudsman)
Many residents in long-term care (LTC) facilities can sometimes feel alone, isolated, and powerless. As a mandated program under the Older Americans Act, the Northern Virginia Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program (NVLTCOP) is often called on to assist residents and consumers to advocate for their rights to ensure quality of care and quality of life. The NVLTCOP needs volunteers who can advocate for the rights of residents in LTC facilities and help them with concerns that they are unable to resolve alone. If you possess skills in listening, communicating, problem solving, empathy and wish to help residents, please consider becoming a Volunteer Ombudsman. We seek those who are willing to complete a comprehensive initial three-day training, commit to a minimum of one year of service, and who can devote at least four hours per week to assisting residents at assigned facilities close to home or work. In addition, each volunteer will be required to participate in ongoing training opportunities throughout their tenure with the NVLTCOP. For more information about NVLTCOP’s volunteer program, or other nursing facility and assisted living concerns, please call the NVLTCOP at 703-324-5861, TTY 711, or contact Claire Yeomans by email at Claire.Yeomans@fairfaxcounty.gov.
(by Ashley-Ann Waaldijk Disability Rights and Resources)
This July marks the 36th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This landmark civil rights law, signed on July 26, 1990, prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities. ADA Anniversary Month honors the progress made and recognize the work still needed to achieve full accessibility and inclusion.
Here are some ways the ADA has helped expand access:
As part of the #ADA36 celebration, the Fairfax County Department of Family Services invites you to AccessAbility Fairfax on Thursday, July 30 at the Fairfax County Government Center.
You can also participate through educational events, storytelling, advocacy, and other community engagement activities. For more ways to get involved, visit adaanniversary.org.
(by Stevie Connor, Department of Family Services)
This free event is designed to connect you directly with county agencies and partners, get personalized assistance, and discover valuable programs designed to support you and your loved ones.
Thursday, July 30, 2026, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Fairfax County Government Center
12000 Government Center Pkwy., Fairfax, VA 22035
$50 transportation vouchers giveaway to qualifying attendees. Limited quantity available!
Learn more and pre-register now at FairfaxCounty.gov/familyservices/disabilities/accessability-fairfax.
(by Katherine Hall, Fairfax Area Agency on Aging)
“Sandwich caregivers” refers to adults who care for both their aging parents and their children. According to the Pew Research Center, nearly half of adults aged 40 to 59 belong to this growing group, who juggle caregiving roles across two generations. Notably, 60% of sandwich caregivers are women, and on average, they spend 45 minutes more each day on caregiving tasks than their male counterparts.
Participating in family activities together is one way to create meaningful experiences for all ages while helping caregivers navigate their dual roles. Fairfax Area Agency on Aging’s virtual Intergenerational Workshop Series provides opportunities to do this. These fun workshops help build stronger connections across generations through fun, shared activities that everyone can enjoy together. Learn more about the Intergenerational Workshop Series in the descriptions below and at bit.ly/IntergenWorkshops.
If you would like to learn more about caregiving resources, please call our Aging, Disability, and Caregiver Resource Line at 703-324-7948 or visit FairfaxCounty.gov/OlderAdults.
Self Defense for the Family
Friday, July 10, Noon-1 p.m.
This virtual workshop, hosted by the Fairfax Area Agency on Aging, is for family caregivers and their families. Instructor Sethi, from the OSA Martial Arts School, empowers individuals of all ages and abilities to see the strength and potential within themselves, while modifying exercises to ensure everyone can participate safely and successfully. This workshop focuses on practical self-defense moves. Expect a fun, supportive, and positive learning environment. Please wear comfortable clothing, bring a cane and a chair if you have them, and come ready with your energy and enthusiasm. Register online at bit.ly/IntergenWorkshops or call 571-407-6961.
Emergency Preparedness for Family Caregivers of Older Adults and People with Disabilities
Wednesday, July 15, Noon-1 p.m.
In this webinar, hosted by the Fairfax Area Agency on Aging, Crystal Goodwin, Access and Functional Needs Specialist for the Fairfax County Department of Emergency Management and Security, will share information about emergency preparedness for family caregivers of older adults and people with disabilities. Participants will learn how to create their own emergency plan and what items to include in an emergency kit. Caregivers will also discover local resources available during and after a disaster, as well as strategies for practicing responses to various emergency situations. Special attention will be given to the unique needs of family caregivers supporting older adults and individuals with disabilities who have access and functional needs during emergencies. Register online at bit.ly/CAREWEB1 or call 571-407-6961.
Unwind With Hula
Friday, July 17, Noon-1 p.m.
This virtual workshop, hosted by the Fairfax Area Agency on Aging, is for family caregivers and their family members of all ages. Join cultural practitioner Jonah Stewart from E Ala E Hawaiian Cultural Center for a gentle hula movement experience. Participants will learn basic hula steps and hand motions while exploring the calming rhythms that shape this traditional practice. The session welcomes all mobility levels, with movements that can be done standing or seated. Participants will gain insight into Hawaiian cultural principles such as aloha, connection, and mindful movement. The workshop promotes relaxation and joyful community engagement across ages. Wear casual clothing; hula is best-learned bare-footed (if able). Register online at bit.ly/IntergenWorkshops or call 571-407-6961.
Cooking 101: Online Cooking Class
Friday, July 31, Noon-1 p.m.
This virtual workshop, hosted by the Fairfax Area Agency on Aging, is for family caregivers and their family members of all ages. Join Jennifer Mertz, Director of Online Classes with Sticky Fingers, for a cooking class for the whole family. This class is designed specifically for children, their family members, and caregivers looking to expand their skills, vocabulary, and independence in their own kitchens while exploring a specific region or type of cuisine. Please note that adult assistance may be required during class, depending on your child's age and ability. Register online at bit.ly/IntergenWorkshops or call 571-407-6961.
(by Amy Carlini, Department of Family Services)
I wonder how many family caregivers can relate to this: when well-meaning people ask me what I’m doing for self-care, it is not comforting. In fact, it makes me feel more stressed.
I (along with countless doctors, nurses, technicians, insurance representatives, and case managers) am caring for my 84-year-old mother who has multiple “comorbidities,” which means she has many serious health issues. The responsibility for my mom’s care falls mainly on me. Fortunately, my parents were able to plan for this financially, so the cost is not as much of a burden as it is for many people, and I have other family members who spend time with my mom and support me. Also, I am lucky to work for the Fairfax County Department of Family Services, so I have the most understanding employer imaginable for my situation.
And still... the physical and emotional toll this has taken on me and my family is too much to put into words. Overseeing the care of my mom takes as much time as a second full-time job. I make crucial life and death decisions on her behalf every day, in addition to helping her navigate her own anxiety and emotions. On top of it all, there are scammers and opportunists trying to take advantage of us if we let down our guard. I have had to put off planned family vacations, dentist and doctor appointments for myself, exercise, and time with friends. To be honest, most days it’s even challenging to find time and motivation to take a shower.
Asking me what I’m doing for self-care feels like you’re asking me to add one more impossible thing to my to-do list. It makes me feel guilty that I’m not taking good care of myself. Reminding me that I need to stay healthy so I’m able to care for my mother is not helpful, even if you’re saying it with the kindest and most compassionate intentions.
So, what can you say instead to show your support? For me, it’s most comforting when people remind me it’s okay not to be okay. It’s okay and unavoidable to make mistakes. It’s okay and forgivable if I don’t handle my stress and emotions well. It’s okay if my hair and clothes and house are a mess. Please remind me it’s not my responsibility to make everyone else feel better.
If you are a caregiver who relates to this, please know there is support available to you through the Department of Family Services:
(by Crystal Goodwin, Department of Emergency Management and Security)
As we propel into summer it is important to remember that hot weather can be dangerous, and everyone should know how to take the proper precautions on a hot summer day. Fairfax County summers can bring high temperatures and humidity which can pose health risks, especially for older adults.
Remember that staying safe in extreme heat starts with preparation. Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you do not feel thirsty, and avoid beverages like alcohol or caffeine. To help regulate your body temperature, wear lightweight, light-colored clothing. Wear sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher and a hat to protect your skin from the sun, and sunglasses to protect your eyes. Outdoor activities are best during the early morning or late evening when it is cooler outside. Stay indoors in air-conditioned spaces during the hottest parts of the day.
It is important to recognize the signs of heat-related illnesses caused by extreme heat. Heat exhaustion can cause dizziness, excessive sweating, nausea, vomiting, weak pulse, cool pale clammy skin, and muscle cramps. Heat exhaustion usually improves by getting to a cooler, air-conditioned place, drinking water and electrolytes, and taking a cool shower or using a cool compress. A heat stroke is much more dangerous than heat exhaustion. Symptoms of heat stroke include headaches, lack of sweating, a rapid or strong pulse, red, hot, or dry skin, and sometimes unconsciousness. If you or anyone you know might be experiencing a heat stroke, try to cool the person down immediately until medical personnel arrive.
Check on your neighbors and friends who may be more vulnerable to heat. Fairfax County has 45 cooling centers that are available during regular business hours that residents can visit when the county's Heat Plan is activated. With these precautions, older adults can enjoy the summertime while staying safe and informed about the dangers of heat. Find more information here: bit.ly/FFXExtremeHeat.
(by Community Risk Reduction, Fairfax County Fire & Rescue Department)
As of June 2026 in Fairfax County, there have been thirteen cooking-related fires that expanded beyond the cooking area and resulted in a fire investigation. Some of these incidents resulted in injuries and fatality.
Unattended cooking and food being left on the stove or in the oven are common contributing factors in home fires related to cooking equipment. Reduce the risk of burn injuries and fires in the kitchen by following these safety tips:
Combustibles (items that could easily catch fire) being in close proximity to cooking appliances is another common contributing factor to home fires.
Most home fires can be prevented; working smoke alarms save lives! Test your smoke alarms MONTHLY. Contact Fairfax County Fire & Rescue to arrange for free smoke & CO alarm installation (703-246-3801, email fire.smokealarms@fairfaxcounty.gov).
‘Tis the season for grilling! Before you fire up the grill, consider the following safety tips:
Fireworks can burn at extremely hot temperatures. People handling fireworks may burn or injure themselves or others or may accidentally start a fire. If you handle fireworks this summer, NEVER place ashes or used fireworks in a trash can. Dispose of ashes and materials that may still be smoldering in a metal bin, and wet as needed.
For more information, or to book a presentation by a Life Safety Education Specialist, please visit our webpage of Educational Resources FairfaxCounty.gov/fire-ems/educational-topics or email us at fire.ESW@fairfaxcounty.gov.
Sources: National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Research; nfpa.org/education-and-research/home-fire-safety/grilling
Have you ever considered opening your home to a senior in need? Are you someone who thrives in a home environment? The Community Adult Residences with Empowering Support (CARES) program helps seniors and host families connect with one another in a mutually beneficial partnership. Jonathan Bell, Adult Services supervisor with the Adult Services Department of Family Services, Mary Lee, the CARES Program coordinator, and Rubina Jawiad, a CARES provider, talk about many aspects of the CARES program. Katherine Vu, a CARE program participant, describes how the program helped her.
Mature Living can be seen on Channel 16 or 1016 (depending on your service provider) on the following days and times:
Mature Living replays on Channel 16 may be preempted by Board of Supervisors, Board of Zoning Appeals, or Planning Commission meetings. Mature Living can also be seen on-demand any time – visit: 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 Tanya Erway, Volunteer Solutions Recruitment Coordinator)
Are you looking for ways to make a meaningful difference in our community? Check out the following volunteer opportunities to support youth and older adults. Additional opportunities are also available at bit.ly/FFXVOLUNTEER.
Do you have a skill or talent you would like to share with others? Volunteer Solutions is seeking skilled volunteers to share their talents with older adults at Fairfax County senior centers and community senior programs. Weekday volunteers are needed to provide entertainment or lead sessions on fitness and arts and crafts.
Helping older adults stay connected and engaged can reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness while improving emotional well-being and overall quality of life, for both the volunteer and recipient of the service. Regular social interaction and meaningful activities can help people remain active, maintain a sense of purpose, encourage creativity and build lasting relationships within the community.
For more information, visit bit.ly/DFS-VS, bit.ly/SeniorCtrOpps, email VolunteerSolutions@FairfaxCounty.gov, or call 703-324-5406. Volunteer Solutions is a partnership between the Fairfax County Department of Family Services and Neighborhood and Community Services.
In addition to opportunities that support older adults, volunteers are also needed to help educate and empower children through prevention-focused, body-safety education programs. The Department of Family Services is seeking volunteer facilitators who are available on weekdays to deliver evidence-based, age-appropriate Body Safety Education lessons in schools across Fairfax County. These sessions focus on helping children understand personal boundaries, build confidence in speaking up, and develop lifelong skills for staying safe and supported.
The program offers:
The next in-person facilitator training will be held Thursday, August 27, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Spanish-speaking volunteers are especially encouraged to apply.
Learn more or apply online, at bit.ly/BodySafe, or email DFSBodySafety@fairfaxcounty.gov.
Become a volunteer and help foster a stronger, more connected community.
If you wish to submit volunteer opportunities to be highlighted in a future column, contact Tanya.Erway@FairfaxCounty.gov.
Volunteer Solutions is excited to present their annual Venture into Volunteering Fair on Sunday, October 18, 2026, from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the Springfield Town Center. This event is in partnership with the 50+ Expo, coordinated by the newly merged Positive Aging Community and The Beacon Newspapers. Get more info at bit.ly/VOLFAIR.
(by Kristin Martin, ElderLink)
ElderLink Virtual Support Call for Family Caregivers of Older Adults, via Microsoft Teams
Tuesday, July 14, 7-8 p.m.
Topic: Open Discussion. Join us for an open discussion on caregiver challenges. Register at tinyurl.com/CaregiverTSG or call the ElderLink Intake Line, 703-324-5374.
Chronic Disease Self-Management Class
Fridays, July 17-August 21, 10 a.m.-Noon
2740 Prosperity Avenue, Fairfax
Don't let ongoing health problems stop you from living the life you enjoy. Fairfax County's Chronic Disease Self-Management Program is a free six-week group interactive workshop series for individuals who are interested in learning how to live better by effectively managing their ongoing health conditions. For more information, please call Kathy Akindemowo 703-324-9814, TTY 711, or email Katherine.Akindemowo2@fairfaxcounty.gov. Register at tinyurl.com/CDSMP123.
Exploring the Dimensions of Aging, via Microsoft Teams
Join Inova ElderLink and the Fairfax Area Agency on Aging for online training to help family and professional caregivers. Using a training platform called Embodied Labs, you will see what it’s like to be an older adult facing real-life challenges. Two new facilitated sessions added for 2026: The Clay Lab (End-of-Life Conversations) and The Beatriz Lab (Alzheimer’s Disease). After the training, you will receive a license to use the Embodied Labs platform whenever you want, so you can keep learning. Register at tinyurl.com/exploring-aging.
To submit an event, email DFSGoldenGazette@FairfaxCounty.gov. All events must be received by the first day of the month prior to the issue month.
Love to Play Softball? Join Us!
The Golden Girls of Northern Virginia, a senior women’s softball league, is looking for players. Woman over 40 with all skill levels are welcome. We play most Wednesday evenings and Saturday mornings in Vienna from May-July and Sept.-Oct. For more information, visit goldengirls.org.
Sign up to Compete in the 2026 Northern Virginia Senior Olympics (NVSO)
Registration open July 6-Aug. 24
The 2026 NVSO will take place Sept. 9-Oct. 4. Over 70 events will be offered, including three new events – rock climbing, weightlifting and darts. Fee to register is $20 and you can compete in an unlimited number of events. For more information and to register, visit nvso.us.
Classes for Care Partners: Activities and Engagement
Wednesday, July 8, Noon-1:30 p.m.
Insight Memory Care, 3955 Pender Dr., Suite 100, Fairfax
This class teaches care partners how to support cognitive function and well-being by learning simple cognitive stimulation activities, adapting favorite hobbies, and incorporating music and art into daily routines. Complimentary lunch provided. Register at InsightMCC.org/events.
Learning About a Dementia Diagnosis
Thursday, July 9, Noon-1 p.m.
Hosted by Insight Memory Care Center, this virtual information session is for individuals recently diagnosed with dementia and their loved ones. We will explore what dementia is (and isn’t), what to expect early on, the emotional impact of a diagnosis, and practical next steps. You'll also learn ways to live well with dementia and get answers to your questions. Register at InsightMCC.org/events.
Stop the Bleed
Wednesday, July 15, 10-11:30 a.m.
Reston Hospital Center, 1850 Town Center Pkwy., Pavilion II, 2nd Floor, Classroom A, Reston
Learn the lifesaving skills needed to prevent the #1 cause of death after an injury: bleeding. A presentation will be followed by hands-on practice of applying direct pressure, packing a wound, and using a tourniquet to stop the bleeding. Participants will receive a certificate of course completion. Register at hcavirginia.com/locations/reston-hospital-center/calendar.
Stop the Bleed - Skills Check Only
Thursday, July 16, 8-10:30 a.m.
Reston Hospital Center, 1850 Town Center Pkwy., Pavilion I, 3rd Floor, Suite 308,Reston
This course is designed for participants who have already completed the online Stop the Bleed Interactive Course using this link: stopthebleed.org/get-trained/online-course/. Participants are required to pass the online quiz (bring email with results as proof) and demonstrate proper bleeding control techniques to receive a certificate of completion. Register at hcavirginia.com/locations/reston-hospital-center/calendar.
Memory Screenings
Monday, July 20, 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.
Dates, prices, and times are correct at publishing. However, please confirm information using the phone numbers or websites provided.
Check out the past newsletters.
*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.