2026 September

Features

Paul Howard: Creating Connections Through a Shared Love of Learning 

Paul Howard has been fascinated by personal computers since they first became available. But despite his years of interest, he doesn’t consider himself a computer expert. Instead, he views his decades-long membership in computer clubs as a way to learn, get involved, and connect with like-minded people. He also does this as a member of the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at George Mason University (OLLI Mason), a nonprofit organization offering educational, social and cultural opportunities for people 50 and older. Paul’s pursuit of lifelong learning has led to an active, engaged and fulfilling retirement. Read more.

Six Things You Can Do to Prevent a Fall

Falling down can be dangerous at any age, but for older adults, it can be devastating. The good news is that falls are not inevitable. There are actions you can take to prevent them. The National Council on Aging (NCOA) recommends doing these six things to prevent a fall. Read more.

National Recovery Month: Supporting the Path Toward Recovery 

National Recovery Month, celebrated every September, shines a light on the progress made in the world of substance recovery and mental health. It’s a moment to celebrate people in recovery and the recovery community, and to show appreciation to the providers and supporters who show up every day to make recovery possible. Read more.

Donate, Don’t Trash These Items – Part Two

Getting rid of unwanted items that take up space in your home can feel good, even freeing. Making sure those items are being put to good use or benefiting others, rather than sitting in a landfill, also feels pretty good. If you are downsizing or clearing out a cabinet or closet, consider donating items that are usable and in good condition. Here are a few ideas where they can be put to good use. Read more.

Thinking Ahead: Being Prepared for a Medical Emergency

Medical emergencies can happen anytime and anywhere. In the event that the Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department (FCFRD) is called to respond to an emergency in your home or community, there are a few steps you can take to help yourself and the first responders during a medical emergency. Read more. 
 

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Monthly Columns

Family Caregiver Support: Fall Prevention Support for Family Caregivers and Their Loved Ones

(by Allegra Joffe, Fairfax Area Agency on Aging)

Family caregivers of older adults and individuals with disabilities often carry a heavy load. Beyond providing emotional support, they can also be responsible for managing complex medical needs, coordinating appointments, tracking medications, and ensuring their loved ones can move safely around the home. The fear of a fall, a serious injury, or an emergency is always in the background – and that constant vigilance can be exhausting. According to the CDC, falls are the leading cause of injury for adults ages 65 years and older. Over 14 million, or one in four older adults report falling every year. Proactive home safety modifications can greatly reduce the risk of falls, make everyday tasks easier, and support a person’s independence for as long as possible. These changes don’t have to be expensive or complicated; even small, thoughtful adjustments can have a big impact. A practical way to start is by using a home safety checklist and walking through the home room by room. The CDC has a Home Fall Prevention Checklist for Older Adults you can access online. 

In addition to making home modifications, caregivers and older adults can benefit from enrolling in evidence-based fall prevention programs. In Fairfax, ElderLink offers several such workshops throughout the year, both in person and online. These programs include Walk with Ease, Bingocize, and A Matter of Balance – classes that combine fall prevention education with activities designed to improve strength, balance, and mobility. Because they are grounded in research, they have been shown to reduce falls and increase participants’ confidence in moving safely. Joining a structured program also provides regular support, accountability, and a sense of community, helping both caregivers and their loved ones feel more empowered and less fearful of falling. If you would like to enroll in fall prevention classes and learn more about caregiving resources, please call our Aging, Disability, and Caregiver Resource Line at 703-324-7948 or visit Older Adults Services. 

Family Caregiver Learning Opportunities Hosted by the Fairfax Area Agency on Aging

Fall Prevention, Home Modifications, and Community Resources for Family Caregivers 
Friday, Sept. 4, Noon-1:30 p.m.
In this virtual panel discussion, hosted by the Fairfax Area Agency on Aging, community partners will focus on helping family caregivers of older adults and people with disabilities reduce the risk of falls at home. Panelists will discuss practical fall prevention strategies, including simple changes in daily routines and the home environment that can significantly improve safety. Attendees will learn about local resources and classes that offer education, exercise, and balance training tailored to older adults and people with disabilities. The discussion will highlight how home modifications – such as grab bars, improved lighting, and adaptive equipment – can support independence and prevent injuries. By the end of the session, caregivers will be better equipped to identify risks, access community support, and advocate for the services their loved ones need. Register online or call 571-407-6961.

Pride and Care: Navigating Dementia in the LGBTQ+ Community
Wednesday, Sept. 23, Noon-1:30 p.m.
In this webinar, hosted by the Fairfax Area Agency on Aging, Dawn Jefferson, Education and Support Coordinator with Insight Memory Care Center will present on navigating dementia in the LGBTQ+ community. Caring for a partner or loved one with dementia is hard enough – doing it while navigating a healthcare system that wasn’t built with LGBTQ+ families in mind adds another layer entirely. This session creates space for LGBTQ+ care partners to share what’s real: the fear of “re-closeting” a loved one in a new care setting, the legal gray areas around chosen family, and the exhaustion of educating providers again and again. Together we’ll talk through practical tools, community resources, and ways to advocate dignity and recognition at every stage of dementia journey. Register online or call 571-407-6961.

Virtual Spanish Speaking Dementia Friends Information Session 
Friday, Sept. 18, Noon-1:15 p.m.
Join this virtual presentation presented in Spanish 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 Marina Giovannini, Dementia Friends Champion Volunteer. Register online or call 571-407-6961.

Spanish Speaking Active Prevention and Managing Safety in Falls Prevention for Older Adults
Friday Sept. 25, Noon-1:30 p.m.
In this webinar, presented in Spanish and hosted by the Fairfax Area Agency on Aging, Carmen Melendez-Pastor, Outreach Assistant with the Northern Virginia Falls Prevention Alliance at Marymount University, will discuss with family caregivers two key strategies for falls prevention in older adults: Active Prevention and Managing Safety. Active Prevention focuses on taking early, personalized steps to reduce fall risk, including reviewing an individual’s fall history, targeting exercise and nutrition, managing medications, having informed conversations with healthcare providers, and creating clear action plans. Managing Safety in Falls Prevention emphasizes supporting physical independence by making practical changes to the home environment and reinforcing safe daily habits. This includes removing hazards, improving lighting, ensuring proper footwear, and closely monitoring medications and their side effects. Together, these approaches help older adults stay safer, more confident, and as independent as possible. Register online or call 571-407-6961.

Theft and Loss in Long-Term Care Facilities

(by Katie Patterson, Long-Term Care Ombudsman)

Theft or loss of belongings, money or other property is a significant concern for many residents of nursing and assisted living facilities. Residents have the right to use personal belongings and have the right to be free from exploitation or misappropriation of their property. Misappropriation of resident property means deliberately using the resident's property without permission. Exploitation means taking advantage of a resident for personal gain through threats, intimidation, or coercion. All long-term care facilities must take reasonable steps to ensure that a resident’s property is kept safe from theft and loss. They must have policies and procedures for preventing and responding to theft, misappropriation, and exploitation.

Take steps to prevent your belongings from getting lost or stolen by:

• Marking all personal items and taking pictures of valuables.
• Keeping a copy of the inventory list created by staff and updating it as needed.
• Asking the facility about their policies for protecting personal belongings.
• Ask the facility for a secure place to lock up valuables.

If you or your loved one is a victim of theft or loss, report the loss immediately to appropriate staff at the facility and notify local law enforcement. 

As a mandated program under the Older Americans Act, the Northern Virginia Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program is often called on to assist residents and consumers to advocate for their rights to ensure quality of care and quality of life. For more information about theft and loss of a resident’s personal belongings, or other nursing facility and assisted living concerns, please call the NVLTCOP at 703-324-5861, TTY 711, or contact by email at NVLTCOP@fairfaxcounty.gov

Mature Living: Emergency Preparedness

(by Fran Guastadisegni, Channel 16)

We all know it’s important to be prepared for emergencies – but where do we start, and what should we prepare for? Courtney Arroyo, Assistant Coordinator of Communications and Community Engagement, and Crystal Goodwin, Access and Functional Needs Specialist – both with the Fairfax County Department of Emergency Management and Security (DEMS), break down the most likely emergencies we might face and how to plan for them. They highlight key online resources and share practical steps you can take to keep yourself and your loved ones safe. Peggy Plunkett, a volunteer with the Fairfax County Community Emergency Response Team, DEMS and the Medical Reserve Corps, shares her real-world experience with emergency preparedness and why being ready matters so much to her.

Mature Living can be seen on Channel 16 on the following days and times:

• Monday-Friday at 9 a.m.
• Sunday at 9:30 a.m.

Mature Living replays on Channel 16 may be pre-empted by Board of Supervisors, Board of Zoning Appeals, or Planning Commission meetings. Mature Living can also be seen On-Demand anytime.

You can find information on services for older adults at Older Adults Services or call 703-324-7948, TTY 711, Monday-Friday.

Free Classes Hosted by ElderLink

(by Kristin Martin, ElderLink)

ElderLink Virtual Support Call for Family Caregivers of Older Adults, via Microsoft Teams
Tuesday, Sept. 15, 7-8 p.m. 

Topic: Emergency Preparedness for Caregivers. When emergencies arise, caregivers often face a multitude of concerns regarding the wellbeing of their loved one. Join us for a brief presentation and discussion facilitated by the Department of Emergency Management and Security (DEMS) on the topic of emergency preparedness. The presentation will include considerations, actions steps that you can take now, and learning about resources available to assist. Register online or call the ElderLink Intake Line, 703-324-5374.

Chronic Disease Self-Management Class
Mondays, Sept. 14-Oct. 19, 10 a.m.-Noon
Vienna Community Center, 120 Cherry St SE, Vienna
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 online (Mature Adults, activity number: 242489-A1).

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 online. 

• The Dima Lab: Lewy Body Dementia and Parkinson’s Disease; Wednesday, Sept. 9, 10-11:15 a.m. 
  Embody Dima as she begins experiencing visual disturbances and changes in motor functions due to the progression of her Lewy Body Dementia, and how she and her family navigate coping with her symptoms. Learn about the early signs and progression of Lewy Body Dementia and important considerations for promoting independence, preserving dignity, and offering culturally competent care.
• The Clay Lab: End of Life Conversations (NEW); Thursday, Sept. 24, Noon-1:15 p.m.
  Embody Clay as he and his family cope with his terminal illness and move into hospice care, learning how clear and caring communication can help with end-of-life choices and understanding what to expect in his final days.
• The Beatriz Lab: Alzheimer’s Disease (NEW); Tuesday, Sept. 29, 2-3:15 p.m.
  Embody Beatriz as she goes through the challenges of progressive Alzheimer’s Disease, seeing how it affects her communication, thinking, and emotional well-being, while learning ways to help her feel safe, supported, and maintain a better quality of life.

Fairfax Area Commission on Aging 

(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.

The COA was on recess in August. At the September 16 meeting, the COA will hear an update on Department of Family Services programs. The COA will also continue to work on the SHAPE the Future of Aging Plan and the Initiative Development Committees. The SHAPE Initiative Development Committee meetings will be ongoing through the duration of the Plan.   

COA Meeting - Wednesday, Sept. 16, 1 p.m.
In Person: Pennino Building, 12011 Government Center Pkwy, Fairfax, VA 22035 – Room 505  
To learn more about the meeting and obtain meeting materials, visit bit.ly/FXCOA , email 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.

2026 Medicare Educational Workshops 

(by the Virginia Insurance Counseling and Assistance Program)

Medicare 101 Workshops are led by the Virginia Insurance Counseling and Assistance Program (VICAP). The workshops are for individuals and their care partners who will soon be eligible for Medicare or have Medicare and would like to learn more about it. In-person workshops have limited seating. Registration is required. Registration for library events begin 30 days prior to the presentation date. For more information, call VICAP at 703-324-5851.

Thursday, October 1, 2-3:30 p.m., In-Person
Reston Community Center, 2310 Colts Neck Rd, Reston
For more information, call 703-476-4500. 

Monday, October 5, 2-3:30 p.m., In-Person
Thomas Jefferson Library, 7415 Arlington Blvd, Falls Church 
Register online. 

Wednesday, October 7, 12:30-2 p.m., In-Person
Jim Scott (Providence) Community Center, 3001 Vaden Dr, Fairfax 
Register online. 

Friday, October 9, 1:30-3 p.m., In-Person 
Tysons-Pimmit Regional Library, 7584 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church
For more information, call 703-790-8088.

Tuesday, October 13, 2-3:30 p.m., In-Person
Lorton Library, 9520 Richmond Highway, Lorton
Register online. 

Wednesday, October 14, 2-3:30 p.m., In-Person
Kings Park Library, 9000 Burke Lake Road, Burke 
Register online. 

Monday, October 19, 2-3:30 p.m., In-Person
Mary Riley Styles Public Library, 120 North Virginia Avenue, Falls Church
Register online. 

Wednesday, October 21, Noon-1 p.m., Virtual
Family Caregiver Support Programs Medicare 101 Webinar 
Register online. 

Thursday, October 22, 2-3:30 p.m., In–Person
Sherwood Regional Public Library, 2501 Sherwood Hall Lane, Alexandria 
Register online. 

Monday, October 26, 1:30-3 p.m., In–Person
Kingstowne Regional Library 
7130 Silver Lake Boulevard, Alexandria
Register online. 

Wednesday, October 28, Noon-1 p.m., Virtual
Family Caregiver Support Programs Medicare 102 Webinar 
Register online.

Wednesday, November 4, 5-6:30 p.m., Virtual
Reston Community Center 
For more information, call Reston Community Center at 703-476-4500.

Friday, November 6, 1:30-3 p.m., In-Person
Chantilly Regional Library, 4000 Stringfellow Rd, Chantilly
Register online. 

Volunteer Spotlight: Helping Others Make Informed Medicare Decisions

(by Tanya Erway, Volunteer Solutions Recruitment Coordinator)

For many people, Medicare can feel confusing and overwhelming, with questions about coverage, enrollment, and changing plan options. For the past 15 years, Bill Vaughan has helped make sense of those questions as a volunteer with the Virginia Insurance Counseling and Assistance Program (VICAP). He has worked with countless older adults and their families who want clear, unbiased information about Medicare.

Through VICAP, a free, confidential program, Bill helps older adults and their families navigate Medicare health insurance plans. Volunteers answer questions ranging from “What is Medicare?” to “Which plans might work best for my situation?” While they cannot recommend specific plans, they explain Medicare options in everyday language, helping people understand their choices and make the decisions that are right for their individual needs. Bill also gives “Medicare 101” presentations throughout the community. Like all VICAP volunteers, he completes annual recertification training because the rules and plans change frequently, and people rely on him for up-to-date information.

What keeps him coming back? “The most rewarding part,” Bill says, “is knowing that the information I provide can help people make informed decisions and sometimes save money.” Medicare can be confusing, and he enjoys helping people avoid common pitfalls. 

Volunteering also keeps Bill sharp and socially connected. When asked what volunteering does for him, Bill pointed to his head and replied, “I can keep my gray cells alive.” He enjoys conversations, problem-solving, and the chance to stay involved in a community he cares about.

Bill’s background helps explain why he’s committed to this work. He retired in 2001 after more than 20 years working on Medicare policy and health-related issues. His path began decades earlier. In 1965, he began his career working for a member of Congress, before joining the House Ways and Means Committee. Over time, his career took several turns, eventually leading him to a health subcommittee, where he became a trusted resource on Medicare and healthcare policy.

After leaving Capitol Hill, Bill worked as a lobbyist for consumer advocacy organizations. His work focused on healthcare, the Food and Drug Administration, and consumer protection. In many ways, his volunteer work with VICAP is a natural continuation of his life’s work: helping everyday people understand and navigate a complicated system. 

Outside of volunteering, Bill and his wife, Joan, recently celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary. Together, they have traveled to all 50 states, visited every state capital and its museum, and continue to enjoy exploring destinations around the world. They are proud parents of three adult children and grandparents to one grandchild.

Bill also wants to share an important reminder about protecting your health. The bandage shown in this photo is the result of a recent skin cancer removal. He encourages everyone to wear sunscreen and take precautions to protect their skin. We are pleased to report that Bill will be okay.

Thank you, Bill, for your many years of service and commitment to helping others in our community! 

Learn more about VICAP resources, and when and where Medicare 101 sessions are being held. 

Save the Date! October 18 – Venture into Volunteering and Beacon 50+ Expo

(by Tanya Erway, Volunteer Solutions Recruitment Coordinator)

Are you looking to add new and enriching activities to your life? Want a purposeful way to spend your free time and make meaningful connections?

Come to the Venture into Volunteering Fair on Sunday, October 18, 2026, 12 to 4 p.m. at the Springfield Town Center! Meet representatives from local organizations offering a wide variety of volunteer opportunities throughout the region. Whether you're just getting started or ready to expand your community involvement, there's something for everyone. Visit bit.ly/VOLFAIR for more details.

Venture into Volunteering is once again partnering with the Beacon 50+ Expo, an engaging event offering a broad range of local resources for older adults, along with health screenings, vaccines, and more. There will be giveaways and door prizes! Admission is free. Don't miss it! Go to bit.ly/BeaconExpo for more information.

Celebrate Connection. Celebrate Communication.

(by Darren Marquardt, Executive Director, Northern Virginia Resource Center for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Persons)

Have you ever been told the TV was just a little too loud? Or had someone jokingly tease, “You sound like an old goose... what? what? what?” If so, you’re in good company.

Or perhaps you’ve arrived at a doctor’s appointment only to discover an interpreter wasn’t arranged. Whether you’re Deaf, hard of hearing, late-deafened, DeafBlind, or someone who loves and supports them, communication challenges touch all of our lives.

Communication creates connection, and connection creates community.

The Northern Virginia Resource Center for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Persons (NVRC) invites you to Celebrate Communication 2026, Northern Virginia’s premier free event celebrating communication access, inclusion, and community.

Join us Saturday, September 26, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the lower-level Grand Court at Springfield Town Center (Entrance 2, between Maggiano's and The Yard House, near the LEGO Store).

More than 35 exhibitors will be on hand with practical resources, technology, and answers. Meet audiologists from Blossom Hearing Center and Otolaryngology Associates, learn about cochlear implants from Advanced Bionics, explore free mobile phone captioning with Rylo, visit the American Tinnitus Association, donate used hearing aids and eyeglasses through the Mason Neck Lions Club, and connect with organizations including Hearing Loss Association of America, the Virginia Association of the Deaf, the Northern Virginia Association of the Deaf, AARP, Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, and many others.

Celebrate Communication is made possible through the generous support of our premier sponsors – InnoCaption, Advanced Hearing/Otolaryngology Associates, the National Court Reporters Foundation, Rylo, and ServiceSource – whose support helps provide communication access, including live CART captioning and interpreters for brief communication exchanges throughout the day.

The event is about more than information – it’s about community. Visit talented Deaf artisans, enjoy face painting from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., snap a photo with Yellow Dog, participate in our Passport to a Prize, and stay afterward for the ASL Social in the food court.

Be sure to stop by the NVRC booth to learn about upcoming programs, services, workshops, support groups, and volunteer opportunities.

Admission is free, and everyone is welcome.

For more information, visit www.nvrc.org, contact Bonnie O’Leary at boleary@nvrc.org, or call 703-352-9055.

We hope you'll join us on September 26 to celebrate connection, communication, and community.

New EBT Chip Cards for SNAP Customers

(Stevie Conner, Department of Family Services)

Do you use an EBT card for SNAP grocery purchases? Beginning in September 2026, Virginia Department of Social Services (VDSS) will replace all magnetic stripe EBT cards with chip-enabled cards that support both tap and chip-insert transactions. 

What you need to know: 

• The change is designed to protect your benefits. Chip and tap-to-pay technology significantly reduces the risk of skimming and cloning.
• Your benefits will carry over to the new chip card.
• VDSS will begin mailing the new cards in September. Make sure you receive your replacement card by updating your address online at commonhelp.virginia.gov; call 703-324-7500; or email DFSMyCase@fairfaxcounty.gov.

Upon receiving the new card, customers should activate the new card and set a new PIN by calling the number on the back of your EBT card. Make sure you activate the new card within 60 days of the card being mailed or you may lose access to your benefits until the card is activated.

After activating the new card, cut up and discard the old magnetic stripe card to protect your benefits.

How to use the new card: 

• Tap or insert chip instead of swiping. Customers should tap or insert the card into the chip reader.
• If inserting, leave the card in until prompted to remove.
• Tapping is generally faster and provides the most enhanced security with less wear on the card. 

Chip cards significantly reduce the risk of card fraud, but continue protecting your benefits with simple steps:

• Keep your PIN secret.
• Check your EBT account regularly and know your balance, so you can quickly identify unusual activity.
• Use the ConnectEBT app to lock and unlock your card. Keeping your card locked until you need to make a purchase can help keep it safer. 

Learn more about SNAP and EBT cards. If you think you may be eligible for SNAP, you can apply online or contact the Enterprise Call Center at 1-833-522-5582. Language assistance is available.

National Preparedness Month 

(by Crystal Goodwin, Department of Emergency Management and Security)

Each September, National Preparedness Month reminds us of the importance of being ready for emergencies, whether natural or man-made. It’s a time to ensure that you, your family, and community are planning ahead for everyone’s safety. In Fairfax County, where a variety of disasters could strike, taking steps to be prepared before an emergency is vital.

One of the most important ways to stay prepared is to stay informed! The best way to do so is to sign up for Fairfax Alerts. Fairfax Alerts delivers important information directly to you by text, email, or phone call, so you can receive timely updates about emergencies, severe weather, transportation impacts, and other important notifications. Signing up is quick and free. New users can register for Fairfax Alerts Everbridge Community, while existing users can log in through the new Everbridge Community Profile to manage their subscriptions. Once registered, customize the notifications you want to receive—including emergency, weather, traffic, and county alerts. 

One of the newest alerts is for scams. To receive scam and fraud updates, select Area Agency on Aging and then choose Silver Shield – Scam and Fraud Information.

If we can't reach you, we can't alert you. Sign up or check if you are signed up!

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Community Calendar

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. 

Stitch Sesh
Tuesday, Sept. 1, 7- 8 p.m.
Burke Centre Library, 5935 Freds Oak Road, Burke
Need help with a project? Want some company while you work? Bring it to the library and hang out with your fellow crafty enthusiasts! All manner of fiber arts and skill levels are welcome. Learn more.

Creating Your Care Team
Wednesday, Sept. 9, Noon-1:30 p.m.
3955 Pender Drive, Suite 100, Fairfax
This complimentary class guides dementia care partners in developing a strong circle of support by teaching strategies for effectively engaging family, friends, and professional services to create a sustainable and helpful care team. Register at InsightMCC.org/events.

A Matter of Balance
Sept. 10, 14, 16, 21, 23, 28, and Oct. 1 and 5, 9-11 a.m.
Saint Matthew's Episcopal Church, 201 E Frederick Drive, Sterling
Offered by Reston Hospital Center, this evidence-based program is specifically designed to reduce the fear of falling and improve activity levels among older adults. Through group discussions, mutual problem solving, role-play activities, and other activities, participants can reduce their fear of falling by implementing small changes that reduce their risk at home. Register online. 

Tysons Pimmit Regional Library Book & Media Sale 
Thursday, Sept. 10-Sunday, Sept. 13, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Tysons Pimmit Regional Library, 7584 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church
Shop a large selection of books and media for all ages and interests. Sunday is a bag sale – $10 for a full grocery sack or half price if less. Proceeds benefit the Tysons-Pimmit Regional Library. Donations of books and media appreciated. Volunteers welcome! For more information, call 703-338-3307, email tysonslibraryfriends@gmail.com or visit our website, tysonslibraryfriends.org. 

Northern Virginia Senior Olympics
Friday, Sept. 11-Sunday, Oct. 4
Cheer on the athletes competing in the 2026 Northern Virginia Senior Olympics! Volunteers are also needed to help run events. Learn more.

The Dementia Journey: What Caregivers Need to Know
Saturday, Sept. 12, 9 a.m.-2:30 p.m.
ICPH Conference Center (2FL), 8100 Innovation Park Dr., Fairfax
To avoid burnout, it is important for caregivers to seek support from healthcare professionals and community resources. Planning ahead for home care, adult day programs, legal and financial matters, and long-term care needs can help families navigate the journey with greater confidence. Sign up for this workshop to learn valuable strategies, access resources, and connect with others facing the journey of dementia. Meet other caregivers, learn from our aging experts, and develop the team you need for successful care for a loved one living with dementia. Register by Sept. 7.

StrongerMemory
Monday, Sept.14, 2-3 p.m.
Dolley Madison Library, 1244 Oak Ridge Ave., McLean
StrongerMemory is designed for everyone, whether you have a mild cognitive impairment diagnosis or strive to thrive as you age. It's also effective, easy to use, and fun. Other ways to improve memory will also be shared. This event will be held the first Monday of every month. Participants are encouraged to wear comfortable clothing and shoes. Registration is required. Get more information and register.

Shepherd’s Center of Fairfax-Burke Lunch N’ Life Luncheon
Thursday, Sept. 17, Noon-2 p.m.
Jubilee Christian Center, 4650 Shirley Gate Rd., Fairfax
Enjoy lunch with entertainment by the barbershop quartet “Just Four Grins.” Cost is $20/person. Reserve your spot by Sept. 10 by calling 703-323-4788. Checks can be made out to Shepherd’s Center of Fairfax-Burke and mailed to 4019 Olley Lane, Fairfax, VA 22032 or pay by credit card at dsnp.co/t0FQdL. Call a week in advance to request a ride.

Care Partner Boot Camp at Insight Memory Care Center
Saturday, Sept. 19, 9 a.m.-Noon
3953 Pender Drive, Suite 100, Fairfax
Join us for a complimentary, special morning training event covering many essential caregiving topics! Register at InsightMCC.org/events.

Chair Yoga for Adults
Saturday, Sept. 19, 11:15 a.m.-Noon
Burke Centre Library, 5935 Freds Oak Road, Burke
Enjoy gentle stretches and rhythmic moves with a certified yoga instructor. While sitting in chairs, attendees will learn how to find stability, alignment and integrity for stretches, and safe movement for the entire body. The yoga program is accessible for all bodies and intended for adults and older adults. Learn more.

Memory Screenings
Monday, September 21, 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.

George Mason Friends Book Sale
Wednesday, Sept. 23-Sunday Sept. 27 
George Mason Regional Library, 7001 Little River Turnpike, Annandale
Preview sale on Wednesday, 5-8 p.m. with an entry fee of $20/adult. General sale, Thursday- Sunday, 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m., Free. Browse a wide variety of high-quality used books, CDs, and DVDs. For more details, visit georgemasonfriends.blogspot.com or call 703-813-6616.

Saturday Matinee Open Film Discussion: Featuring Cinema Paradiso
Saturday, September 26, 11 a.m. -3 p.m.
Plum Center for Lifelong Learning, 6815 Edsall Rd, Springfield
Join us for a special, free matinee led by esteemed ACE Instructor, John LeBlanc, a World Film educator with FCPS ACE. Cinema Paradiso is a beloved Italian coming-of-age story that follows a successful filmmaker as he reflects on his childhood in Sicily and the powerful role cinema played in shaping his life. Seating is limited, so please register to reserve your space.

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.