(by Ashley-Ann Waaldijk, Disability Rights and Resources)

Fairfax County Department of Family Services welcomes the month of October with their annual Employment Mentoring Day event in celebration of National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM). NDEAM was created by Congress in 1945 to honor the contributions and achievements of people with disabilities in the workforce, and to reaffirm the commitment to addressing disability-related employment disparities.

According to the U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics, 75.2% of the working-age population (aged 16 to 64) without disabilities were employed in July 2024, compared to only 36.9% for persons with a disability. These statistics encourage the conversation on how we might improve job prospects for those with a disability. This year’s NDEAM theme is “Access to Good Jobs for All,” to highlight the importance of increasing the quantity and quality of employment opportunities for people with disabilities.

Employment Mentoring Day is hosted by the Disability Rights and Resources (DRR) unit in partnership with Fairfax County Public Schools. This event provides students with disabilities opportunities to explore potential career paths that exist within local government, gain insight from current employees and former interns on their experiences, and find out the next steps to take toward employment.

In addition, DRR oversees several initiatives throughout the year designed to promote the inclusion of people with disabilities in county employment. This includes their John Hudson Internship Program and their Employment Development Training Program, two paid internship programs for students with disabilities. We believe that these initiatives will empower those with disabilities to identify a trove of opportunities and pursue their passions.

Statistics were sourced from the Current Population Survey, Bureau of Labor Statistics.

(by Katie Patterson, Long-Term Care Ombudsman)

Residents’ Rights Month is celebrated every October to honor residents in long-term care (LTC) facilities, such as nursing and assisted living facilities, and for consumers receiving LTC services in the community. Residents’ Rights Month is an opportunity to focus on and celebrate the dignity and rights of every individual receiving long-term services and supports. Residents’ rights are guaranteed by federal and state laws and are critical components to ensure high-quality care and the best life for all residents. The 2024 theme for Residents’ Rights Month is, “The Power of My Voice.” This month, celebrate the power of residents’ voices to speak out about their rights and desires for themselves. To learn more information about and to participate in activities related to Residents’ Rights Month, visit National Consumer Voice for Quality Long-Term Care’s website at theconsumervoice.org/events/2024-residents-rights-month.

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. For more information about residents’ rights, or other nursing facility and assisted living concerns, please call the NVLTCOP at 703-324-5861, TTY 711, or email NVLTCOP@fairfaxcounty.gov.

(by Gwen Jones, Department of Family Services)

October 10 is National Ombudsman Day, an annual recognition that celebrates the work of ombudsman while also raising awareness of their work and encouraging greater use of their programs and services.

For residents and family members of residents living in nursing and assisted living facilities in the City of Alexandria, Fairfax County, Arlington County and Loudoun County, the Northern Virginia Long-Term Care (LTC) Ombudsman Program serves as a focal point where they can voice their concerns and have their complaints addressed formally. The LTC ombudsman investigates and works to resolve concerns through complaint counseling, negotiation, and complaint investigations.

LTC ombudsmen also advocate for improving the quality of life for people receiving LTC services, provide information about LTC providers to help consumers make an informed decision, educate the community about LTC issues, train LTC staff, and consult with providers. Additionally, LTC facilities are visited quarterly by ombudsman staff and weekly by LTC ombudsman volunteers.

If you feel strongly about improving the quality of life of people residing in LTC facilities, consider volunteering with the LTC ombudsman program. To learn more about the program and how to volunteer, visit FairfaxCounty.gov/familyservices/older-adults/long-term-care-ombudsman-program. You can also call 703-324-5861, TTY 711, Monday-Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., or email NVLTCOP@fairfaxcounty.gov.

(by Stevie Kelly, Department of Family Services)

Crisp fall air and changing leaves can be refreshing after the heat of summer. It also hints at the cold to come over the winter months. Cold weather can strain heating systems and increase costs, which can be difficult for anyone on a limited income. The Fuel Assistance program helps pay heating costs for eligible households. Some people will be pre-approved and others will need to apply. Applications will be accepted from October 8 until November 8 this year.

The Crisis Assistance program is another option for households in need of heating assistance this winter. Crisis Assistance helps those who are in a “no heat” situation, such as broken equipment or receiving a disconnection notice. Crisis Assistance applications will be accepted starting November 1 until March 15.

To apply for Fuel or Crisis Assistance, or other food and medical benefits, visit CommonHelp.Virginia.gov or call 855-635-4370.

Have you been thinking about volunteering? Are you looking to add new and enriching activities to your life? Looking for a purposeful way to spend your free time and create new connections?

Come to the Venture into Volunteering Fair at the Springfield Town Center on the upper level, Sunday, November 3, 2023, noon-4 p.m.! Representatives from county and nonprofit organizations will be there to share information about a wide variety of volunteer opportunities throughout the region. There’s something for everyone. Go to bit.ly/VOLFAIR for more details.

This will be the second year that Venture into Volunteering is happening in conjunction with the Beacon 50+ Expo. The 50+ Expo offers a wide array of information on local resources for older adults, as well as health screenings, flu shots, and vaccines. The event is free and there will be door prizes!

(by Tanya Erway, Volunteer Solutions Recruitment Coordinator)

From the moment you meet Volunteer Solutions volunteer, Tracy Griggs, it’s easy to see why the accolades have been coming in regarding the support she has provided to several older adult clients receiving case management from the Department of Family Services (DFS). Tracy has a palpable energy and a passion for helping others improve their quality of life.

She started volunteering with Volunteer Solutions in 2018, after she retired from a federal agency, where she worked for 30 years. It’s unsurprising that during her career, she was a senior administrator and is used to organizing events and managing teams. As a volunteer, among other roles, she has taken people grocery shopping, driven them for errands, to medical appointments, sorted mail, decluttered, and helped them get nourishment - including nourishing their spirits with the power of human connection and compassion.

Tracy explained that as her divorced parents aged and faced their health challenges, they had their own local support networks (in their respective states), as well as her help, and she continues this caring role for the DFS clients who live in Fairfax County. She shared, “I love forming relationships. Many people are painfully lonely. We can all do our part to make the world a little less lonely.”

If you’d like to learn more about Volunteer Solutions, go to bit.ly/FXVSVOL, email VolunteerSolutions@FairfaxCounty.gov, or call 703-324-5406.

(by Katherine Hall, Fairfax Area Agency on Aging)

Caring for older adults and people with disabilities is a noble and rewarding task, but it often comes with significant emotional and physical challenges. Caregivers frequently find themselves managing a multitude of responsibilities, ranging from daily personal care and medical appointments to dealing with the complexities of chronic illnesses. This constant demand can lead to caregiver burnout, characterized by physical exhaustion, emotional stress, and feelings of being overwhelmed. Research shows that caregivers are at a heightened risk for anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. Recognizing these risks is the first step toward addressing and mitigating them. It is essential for caregivers to prioritize their own mental health to maintain their well-being and provide the best possible care for their loved ones.

Fairfax County offers a robust array of mental health support services specifically designed to assist caregivers. The Fairfax Area Agency on Aging provides educational resources, support groups, and consultation services to help alleviate the pressures on caregivers. The county organizes regular caregiver support group meetings, which can be a valuable space for sharing experiences and gaining emotional support. For those who prefer the convenience of remote participation, these support groups allow caregivers to connect from their own homes. Furthermore, the county’s Human Services Resource Guide (HSRG) is an excellent tool for finding local mental health services, including counseling and therapy options. The HSRG can be found at fairfacsportal.fairfaxcounty.gov/resource-guide. Fairfax County also provides respite care services, giving caregivers the opportunity to take necessary breaks and focus on their own mental health. By utilizing these comprehensive programs and services, caregivers in Fairfax County can better manage their mental health, ensuring they remain resilient and effective in their caregiving roles. If you wish to learn more about caregiving resources, call our Aging, Disability, and Caregiver Resources Line at 703-324-7948 or visit FairfaxCounty.gov/OlderAdults.

Family Caregiver Learning Opportunities

Virtual Dementia Friendly Information Session
Wednesday, October 9, Noon-1:15 p.m.
Join this presentation and learn how to become a dementia friend. Turn your new understanding of dementia into practical action that can help someone living in your community. Presented by Allegra Joffe, Supervisor with the Fairfax Area Agency on Aging, and Diane Watson, Dementia Friends Champion Volunteer. Register online at bit.ly/DementiaFriendlyFairfax or call 571-407-6961.

Medicare 101
Wednesday, October 16, Noon-1 p.m.
In this virtual presentation, hosted by the Fairfax Area Agency on Aging, Bill Vaughn, Volunteer with Virginia Insurance Counseling & Assistance Program (VICAP) will share information for individuals who will be eligible for Medicare and want to learn about their options. The session will provide an overview of the many components of Medicare: Part A (inpatient hospitalization/skilled nursing), Part B (outpatient hospital/doctors/labs/radiology), Part C (Medicare Advantage Plans), and Part D (prescription drugs), as well as how to cover the gaps in Medicare benefits through Medicare Supplement Plans (Medigap). Register online at bit.ly/CAREWEB1 or call 571-407-6961.

Medicare 102
Wednesday, October 23, Noon-1 p.m.
In this virtual presentation, hosted by the Fairfax Area Agency on Aging, Bill Vaughn, Volunteer with Virginia Insurance Counseling & Assistance Program (VICAP) will share information for individuals who are interested in learning more in-depth details regarding Medicare coverage. The session will provide an overview of advanced Medicare details, such as the Medicare.gov website, the latest regulatory changes, and key legislative proposals, as well as provide individuals with an opportunity to ask more complex questions. The latest Medicare updates for 2025 will be discussed. Register online at bit.ly/CAREWEB1 or call 571-407-6961.

(by the Virginia Insurance Counseling and Assistance Program)

Medicare 101 Workshops, led by the Virginia Insurance Counseling and Assistance Program (VICAP), 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 begins 30 days prior to the presentation date. Register online or call VICAP at 703-324-5851, TTY 711.

Tuesday, October 8, 2-3:30 p.m., In-Person
Mary Riley Styles Public Library, 120 North Virginia Avenue, Falls Church. For more information, contact Peter Sullivan at 703-248-5030.

Tuesday, October 15, 6-7:30 p.m., In-Person
Sherwood Regional Library, 2501 Sherwood Hall Lane, Alexandria. For more information, contact Jeffrey Snavely at 703-765-3645.

Tuesday, October 22, Noon-1:30 p.m., In-Person
Reston Community Center, 2310 Colts Neck Road, Reston. For more information, contact Cassie Lebron at 703-476-4500.

Monday, October 28, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m., In-Person
Kingstowne Library, 6500 Landsdowne Centre, Alexandria. For more information, contact Roxanna Ringer at 703-339-4610.

Friday, November 1, 9:45-11:15 a.m., In-Person
Stacy C. Sherwood Community Center, 3740 Blenheim Boulevard, Fairfax. For more information, contact Jason Scadron at 703-385-1695.

Wednesday, November 6, 6-7:30 p.m.,In-Person
Tysons-Pimmit Regional Library, 7584 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church. For more information, contact Lisbeth Herer at 703-790-8088.

Thursday, November 7, 2-3:30 p.m., In-Person
Thomas Jefferson Library, 7415 Arlington Blvd, Falls Church. For more information, contact Rebecca Wolff at 703-573-1060.

Friday, November 8, 3:30-5 p.m., In-Person
Chantilly Regional Library, 4000 Stringfellow Road, Chantilly. For more information, contact Stephanie Hutchins at 703-502-3883. Register at librarycalendar.fairfaxcounty.gov/event/12519932.

Tuesday, November 12, 2-3:30 p.m., In-Person
Kings Park Library, 9000 Burke Lake Road, Burke. For more information, contact Emily Swain at 703-978-5600.

Wednesday, November 13, 10-11:30 a.m., Virtual
Virtual presentation hosted by ServiceSource. For more information, contact Taylor Johnson at 703-461-6000. Register at bit.ly/3WostSp.

Wednesday, November 13, 5-6:30 p.m., Virtual
Virtual presentation hosted by the Reston Community Center. For more information, contact Cassie Lebron at 703-476-4500.

(by the Fairfax County Police Department)

Fairfax County Police Department’s (FCPD) Financial Crimes Unit is working to ensure that community members never fall victim to scams of impersonators claiming to be law enforcement officers.

What is the Scam?

This common financial scam involves a suspect contacting victims by phone or email, posing as police or government agents. The suspect informs the victim they have outstanding legal obligations, such as unpaid fines for fictitious traffic and arrest violations. The suspect demands the victim to pay to resolve the obligation by purchasing gift cards and cryptocurrency, initiating bank wirings, and providing payment through financial applications. The suspect then uses intimidation tactics, such as threats of arrest or legal consequences, to coerce victims into complying with their demands and receiving payment.

How Do I Prevent the Scam?

The police will NEVER ask you for money or demand immediate payment in the form of gift cards, crypto-currency, or other financial options to resolve the issue.

• If you receive a suspicious call, ask for the caller’s name, badge number, and department. Hang up and independently verify their identity by calling our non-emergency line at 703-691-2131. Scammers will spoof real government phone numbers in an attempt to legitimize their scheme.
• Approach these calls with caution, especially those prompting immediate action or requesting sensitive information. Legitimate authorities will not rush you into making payments or divulging personal information.
• Stay informed about common scamming techniques and share this information with family members and friends, especially those who may be more vulnerable to scams.
• If you suspect a scam or have fallen victim to one in Fairfax County, report it to FCPD’s Financial Crimes Unit through our online portal at FairfaxCounty.gov/police/HowDoI/FinancialCrimes or call our non-emergency line at 703-691-2131.
• Don’t share personal information over the phone unless you initiated the call and are certain of the recipient’s legitimacy.
• Consult with trusted family or friends before making any financial decisions, especially those involving large sums of money or unfamiliar technologies.

For ongoing updates, please read our blog and follow us on social media at @FairfaxCountyPD.

(by the Division of Emergency Preparedness and Response, Fairfax County Health Department)

Falls are a significant health threat for older adults. More than one in four older adults fall each year. One out of 10 falls among older adults results in an injury that restricts their activity or has other medical implications. Whether you’re navigating daily activities or facing an emergency, the Fairfax County Health Department encourages you to have a plan in place for preventing falls so you can stay safe and active.

Fall Prevention

• Modify your environment. Use non-slip mats in your bathtub or shower. Tape down or remove loose rugs. Assess your home for trip hazards such as boxes, electrical cords, or loose papers, and relocate those items as needed. Turn on the lights in low-light conditions and before using the stairs and utilize stairway handrails.
• Take medications as prescribed and be aware of side effects. Missing your medicine can cause lightheadedness or dizziness depending on the medication. Also, take note of whether dizziness, lightheadedness, or similar symptoms are a potential side effect of your medications.
• Wear appropriate shoes. Shoes with non-slip soles and good ankle and arch support can help you maintain your stability. Wearing slippers or socks alone can contribute to falls, so opt instead for supportive footwear.
• Utilize supportive devices. Canes, walkers, and other assistive devices can help you maintain your balance and your mobility.
• Have routine health screenings. Visit your primary care provider and eye doctor routinely to screen for and address any impairments that could increase your fall risk. Discuss your fall risk with your health care provider and follow their guidance.
• Have a plan. Make sure you have a way of calling 9-1-1 and getting help if you do experience a fall and need medical support or other assistance. Keep your cellphone charged and on your person, and/or utilize a medical alerting device.

Cold Weather Preparedness

Fall weather brings changing leaves and wetter conditions. Rain, sleet, and snow can make sidewalks and other walkways slick. Monitor the weather and avoid walking outside in these conditions. If you own a dog, coordinate with a neighbor or loved one to have someone walk the dog for you during these times.

Evacuate Safely

In the event of an evacuation, have a plan in place that accounts for any mobility needs you may have. Keep a pair of supportive, non-slip shoes readily accessible. Bring any assistive mobility devices that you need with you.

(by Moriah Kitaeff, Department of Emergency Management and Security)

October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month, dedicated to educating the public on the importance of online safety. Unfortunately, cybercriminals often attempt to steal sensitive information or deceive people into sending money under the mask of legitimate situations. While we can’t stop or catch every cybercriminal, there are steps we can take to protect ourselves and reduce the risk of becoming a victim:

• Recognize phishing schemes: Be cautious of emails that seem suspicious, such as those with multiple spelling errors, promises of too-good-to-be-true prizes, or notifications about missed deliveries when you haven’t ordered anything. Delete such emails and avoid clicking on any links.
• Use strong passwords: Avoid using easily accessible information, like details shared on social media, for your passwords. For instance, if you’ve posted about your daughter Samantha’s 5th birthday on Facebook, a cybercriminal could easily figure out her birthdate and use it as a password to access your accounts.
• Enable multifactor authentication: Although it can seem redundant, multifactor authentication adds an extra layer of security to your online accounts, making it harder for unauthorized individuals to gain access. Depending on your phone settings, it might be called two-factor authentication, two-step verification, or multifactor verification.
• Activate automatic software updates: When your devices, apps, or software notify you of available updates, there’s usually a reason behind it, such as fixing a security issue or improving functionality. Enabling automatic updates helps ensure your systems stay secure.

Cybersecurity is important year-round, not just in October. Take a moment to review your account settings: Are automatic software updates enabled? Are your passwords linked to personal details? Does that email seem too good to be true? While the internet has revolutionized our lives, it still carries risks. Learn more about cyber risks at FairfaxCounty.gov/emergency/readyfairfax/cyberattack.

Have you ever misplaced your keys or forgotten someone’s name? Incidents like these happen to many of us, but is it just a lapse in memory… or could it be something more serious?

The Alzheimer’s Association reports that “Dementia is a general term for loss of memory, language, problem-solving and other thinking abilities that are severe enough to interfere with daily life.”

Having memory loss alone doesn't mean you have dementia. Memory loss can have different causes, and depending on the cause, some dementia symptoms might even be reversible. Dr. Jennifer Pauldurai from Inova Neurology gives an overview of this disease. Allegra Joffe, Supervisor of the Caregiver and Support Services Unit at the Fairfax Area Agency on Aging, shares resources available in Fairfax County for those with dementia and their caregivers. In addition, a local family caregiver shares her personal experience with a family member with dementia and offers words of wisdom and encouragement.

Mature Living can be seen on Channel 16 or 1016 (depending on your service provider) on the following days and times:

• Sunday at 9:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m.
• Monday at 5 p.m. and 9:30 p.m.
• Tuesday at 4 p.m., 8:30 p.m. and 11:30 p.m.
• Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m.
• Thursday at 8:30 a.m., 4 p.m. and 11:30 p.m.
• Friday at 9:30 a.m., 3:30 p.m. and 9 p.m.
• Saturday at 9:30 a.m., 4 p.m. and 11 p.m.

This program can also be seen on your computer: FairfaxCounty.gov/cableconsumer/channel-16/mature-living

You can find information on services for older adults at FairfaxCounty.gov/OlderAdults or call 703-324-7948, TTY 711, Monday-Friday.

(by 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 September 18 COA meeting, the COA met and discussed visioning for the continued work of the SHAPE Initiative Development Committees. At the October 16 meeting, the COA will continue to work on the SHAPE the Future of Aging Plan and there will also be a presentation on the Countywide Strategic Plan.

COA Meeting, Wednesday, October 16, 1 p.m.
In Person: Pennino Building, 12011 Government Center Pkwy, Fairfax – Room 505

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: VA Relay 711.

Lifetime Learning Institute of Northern Virginia’s Fall/Winter 2024 Class Catalog Now Available
LLI, affiliated with the NOVA-Annandale campus, is a non-profit, member-run organization offering stimulating educational, cultural, and social pursuits to adults ages 50 and over. Classes are in-person or online. For the class catalog, information on membership, and how to enroll, visit llinova.org. For questions, email admin@llinova.org.

Fiesta Fairfax! Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month!
Saturday, October 5, 2-7 p.m.
Old Town Square, 10415 North Street, Fairfax
Free event featuring a variety of cultural performances, music, food and educational exhibits highlighting the contributions and experiences of the Hispanic community. Area non-profits will be onsite to share information about services and opportunities to work with our growing Latino community. For more information, visit fairfaxva.gov/government/parks-recreation/special-events or call 703-273-6097.

SAGE Table Event
Tuesday, October 8, Noon-2 p.m.
The Landing Alexandria, 2620 Main Line Blvd, Alexandria SAGE Table is an initiative launched in 2017 to fight isolation in the LGBTQ+ community through the power of intergenerational connections. The transformative relationships formed around a SAGE Table can alleviate social isolation and its consequences. Members of the LGBTQ+ community and allies are encouraged to attend. Meals will be provided. Space is limited - sign up at insightmcc.org/get-involved/events/event_calendar.html.

Free Northern Virginia Virtual 50+ Employment Expo
Thursday, October 10, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
Attend two morning workshops created for age 50+ jobseekers to help you with your job search. From noon to 3 p.m., hear area employers talk about their companies and openings and answer questions from jobseekers. Register for free at VirtualExpos.AccessJCA.org.

Memory Screenings
Monday, October 21, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Wellness Center for Older Adults, 4027B Olley Lane, Fairfax Insight Memory Care Center offers free 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 to reserve a 30-minute appointment at 703-970-3601.

Consumer Affairs Presents: Sleigh Safe This Holiday Season: How to Avoid Holiday Scams
Tuesday October 29, 10:15-11:15 a.m.
Hosted by the Virtual Center for Active Adults. For more information, visit bit.ly/novaVCAA; To join the virtual presentation on Zoom, visit bit.ly/VCAAzoom2; Meeting ID: 905 123 5932 Passcode: 3636

SPARK Movie Screening and Q&A
Wednesday, October 30, 7-9 p.m.
Join us for a special virtual viewing of the film SPARK - Robin Williams and his Battle with Lewy Body Dementia followed by a live panel discussion with the Lewy Body Dementia Association. Register at insightmcc.org/get-involved/events/event_calendar.html.

The Beacon 50+ Expo and Venture into Volunteering
Sunday, November 3, Noon-4 p.m.
Springfield Town Center, 6500 Springfield Mall, Springfield
Older adults and their families are invited to attend this free, in-person event to learn about a range of services and resources, listen to informative speakers, participate in health screenings, and more. In addition to the 50+ Expo, The Beacon is partnering with the Fairfax Area Agency on Aging to offer “Venture into Volunteering," featuring more than 35 agencies and nonprofits offering exciting volunteer opportunities. Learn more at thebeaconnewspapers.com/50expos.

Please note that dates, prices, and times are correct at publishing. However, please confirm information by calling or checking using the phone numbers or websites provided.