(Article from the Department of Family Services, Public Assistance and Employment Services Division)

Are you 55 or older and unemployed? Do you want to get back to work, but need additional training and skills? Then consider enrolling in the Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP).

The program’s purpose is to improve the overall wellbeing and economic security of older Americans. This happens through community collaboration with nonprofits and local government agencies. The program is uniquely targeted to the older adult workforce.

SCSEP matches older adults with part time training assignments at community nonprofit organizations or local government agencies. During these assignments, SCSEP participants build new skill sets and self-confidence, all while earning a modest stipend. The networking and professional development of the program often leads to permanent employment.

Here is a testimonial from Aster Workneh: “SCSEP gives opportunities to work and train in different nonprofit organizations. I now have work experience and confidence to do office work.” Aster recently returned to her host site and continues to excel. She was selected to take advanced training related to her employment goals. She looks forward to gaining employment that will leverage her new skills.

Send an email for program details.

(Article by Jacquie Woodruff, Director, Livable Communities Development, 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 Board of Supervisors (BOS) and the City Councils of the City of Fairfax and the City of Falls Church. 

At the June 16 COA meeting, Judith Cabelli, Affordable Housing Development Division Director and Department of Housing and Community Development, presented on strategic planning of affordable housing in Fairfax County. 

The Fairfax County Communitywide Housing Strategic Plan, Phase 2 includes a recommendation for 5,000 new affordable units over the next 15 years, and a commitment to preserve all “market-affordable” units in Fairfax County. 

A Preservation Task Force was convened to provide the Fairfax County BOS with policy recommendations for creative and sustainable housing preservation initiatives that are consistent with the One Fairfax and best practices. They adopted the Preservation Task Force recommendations at their April 13, 2021 BOS meeting.

One Fairfax is a joint racial and social equity policy of the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors and School Board. It commits the county and schools to intentionally consider equity when making policies or delivering programs and services. The Board of Supervisors adopted the Preservation Task Force recommendations at their meeting on April 13, 2021. Find the complete One Fairfax policy online.

COA Meeting Wednesday, July 21 at 1 p.m.

Zoom: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84907426481

Access Code: COA-m1234! You may also call 888-270-9936 (US Toll Free) or 602-333-0032

Conference Code: 231525

Need ADA accommodations? Contact Hilda Naranjo by phone 703-324-7496, TTY 711 or email.

Please note that electronic meetings are scheduled due to the State of Emergency caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Find updates online.

(Article from the Virginia Insurance Counseling and Assistance Program)

Medicare 101 Workshop, led by the Virginia Insurance Counseling and Assistance Program, provides current information on Medicare options.

Tuesday, July 13, Virtual Medicare 101, 10:15-11:45 a.m.
NCS Virtual Center for Active Adults. Register at 703-339-7676 or http://bit.ly/VICAPJuly13.

(Article from the Fairfax County Health Department)

Looking forward to taking a water aerobics class this summer? Here is what you need to know about safe and healthy swimming.

Get Vaccinated for COVID-19
If you are fully vaccinated, you can resume activities without wearing a mask or socially distancing in most settings. You are considered fully vaccinated two weeks after receiving the second dose in a two-dose series (Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna), or two weeks after receiving a single-dose vaccine (Johnson & Johnson). If you haven’t been vaccinated yet, make an appointment by calling the Fairfax County Health Department at 703-324-7404.

Know Your Pool’s Rules
You may still be asked to wear a mask or keep space between you and others this summer. If you are not fully vaccinated, however, you should continue to take preventative measures when you visit beaches and pools.

Don’t Forget Healthy Swimming Basics
Germs in contaminated water in pools, hot tubs/ spas, lakes, rivers, or oceans can result in diarrhea, skin rashes, ear pain, cough or congestion, and eye pain. Avoid getting sick by keeping water out of your mouth when you swim. Always practice healthy swimming habits like staying out of the water when you have diarrhea and showering and washing your hands before getting in the water.

Enjoy Swimming in Fairfax County!
Learn about Fairfax pools and aquatic classes at Fairfax County Parks.

(Article from the Office of Emergency Management)

Extreme heat that is coupled with high humidity can be deadly. It slows evaporation and requires the body to work harder to moderate its core temperature. Overexposure to heat or overexertion may trigger heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke.

Do you know the signs and what to do?

• Heat cramps are muscular pains and spasms due to heavy exertion.
• Heat exhaustion typically occurs when people exercise heavily or work in a hot, humid place, and body fluids are lost by heavy sweating. It must be treated with fluids and cooling the skin, or it will turn into heat stroke.
• Heat stroke is life-threatening and happens when a person’s temperature-control system (sweat) stops. working. Victims will be completely incoherent or unconscious requiring immediate medical attention.

Here are some ways to avoid a heat-related illness:

• Stay indoors as much as possible and limit exposure to heat and sun.
• Drink plenty of water or electrolyte sports drinks.
• Avoid strenuous work at the warmest part of the day.
• Use a buddy system when working in extreme heat, have a phone handy, and take frequent breaks.

What can you do if you feel woozy, overheated, or unwell? You must immediately take action!

• Stop any strenuous activity.
• Get somewhere cool.
• Drink something if you can.
• Cool your skin by taking a cold bath or holding anything cold against your body.
• Call for help or dial 911. Do this before your condition compromises critical thinking skills!

(Article by Giuliana Valencia, Social Services Specialist, Fairfax Area Agency on Aging)

Deciding to move a loved one to a long-term care facility is never easy. Often a caregiver feels overwhelmed by guilt and grief. In fact, it is not uncommon for a family caregiver to promise never to place a loved one in a nursing home. Unfortunately, often when that promise is made, they do not fully understand how care and needs will change with time. Caregivers also worry about not getting quality care in the facility and fear a decline in overall health.

If you are contemplating a move for your loved one, please know that these types of feelings and angst are normal. Another important aspect when caregiving is to have conversations with family members and explore all available resources. This will help in making the best decision for your situation. Some resources in Fairfax are:

• The Northern Virginia Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program provides information about long-term care providers to help consumers make informed decisions. Find information online and click on Long-Term Care Ombudsman or call 703-324-5861, TTY 711.
   
• Caregiver Consultations yields an in-depth conversation with a social worker about the caregiving needs of a loved one. Please call 703-324-5374, TTY 711 for a caregiver consultation between 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.

This webinar offers a medical perspective on why we need to address driving safety among older adults. It will explore the causes that impair driving ability, provide advice on how to address driving ability with older drivers, and gives an overview of places that provide driving safety courses and CarFit checks.

Register online and scroll to the Free Events or call 703-324-5484.

Surveys show that at some point, a family caregiver will face the decision of whether to place a loved one in a long-term care facility.

This panel conversation will provide information about different options and resources to help you make a decision. It also provides information on advocating while they are in a care facility.

Panelists: Kristen Lucia, Northern Virginia LongTerm Care Ombudsman Program; Denise Pitts, attorney, Legal Services of Northern Virginia, Inc.; Tavna Limage, Fairfax assistant program manager, Adult Protective Services.; Allison Fitch,
financial exploitation coordinator, Fairfax Adult Protective Services.

Register online and scroll to the Free Events or call 703-324-5484.

The Inova Parkinson’s and Movement Disorders Center provides comprehensive care and accessible support, and they are now offering additional resources. Everyone living with Parkinson’s, family, and friends, as well as allied health professionals, is welcome to join the educational and movement programs. For more information, send an email or call 703-375-9987.

(Article by Camden Doren, Social Services Specialist, Ombudsman Program, Department of Family Services)

Theft or loss of belongings, money and 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 their 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 take photos of valuables,
• Keeping a copy of the inventory list created by staff and update it as needed,
• Asking the facility about their policies for protecting personal belongings,
• Asking for a secure place to lock up valuables in the facility.

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, call NVLTCOP at 703-324-5861, TTY 711 or send an email.

(Article by Jennifer Purcell, Social Worker, ElderLink, Fairfax Area Agency on Aging)

Join the July ElderLink Caregiver Support Call for discussion on how we, as family caregivers, manage difficult and challenging behaviors of people with memory impairments.

Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias are often accompanied by challenging behaviors that we are not always prepared to handle. When loved ones become angry or aggressive, it is not unusual to feel hurt or frustrated. Reminding yourself that the exacerbated behavior you are seeing is a result of the disease and—not the person’s choice—may help you cope with your feelings of distress.

Many of us have experienced these behaviors, so how have you dealt with these challenges? What successes or learned lessons will you share with other group members?

Join us on Tuesday, July 13, 7–8 p.m.

The call is facilitated on Zoom by two dynamic and experienced ElderLink social workers, Krystale Noriega and Jennifer Purcell.

Register online and look for the links under Hot Topics. You may also call 703-324-5374 or email Krystale Noriega or Jennifer Purcell. An access link and phone number will be provided after registration.
 

(Article by Maria Loh, Program Coordinator, Congregate Nutrition, Fairfax Area Agency on Aging)

The month of July is a great time to eat healthy. At each meal, half of our plate should include fruits and vegetables. The benefit of a diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables is that they are good sources of vitamins, minerals, and fiber.

Studies show that diets high in produce may lower the risk of some chronic diseases, like high blood pressure, heart, and some forms of cancer. Fresh fruits and vegetables also are lower in calories, sodium, and fat.

July is a good time to buy apples, beets, cabbage, cucumbers, eggplant, green beans, blackberries, blueberries, cantaloupe, nectarines, peaches, potatoes, sweet corn, tomatoes and watermelon.

Here are ways to enjoy more fruits and vegetables in your daily life:

• Add some fresh fruit such as strawberries or blueberries to your morning cereal or yogurt.
• Keep sliced fresh fruit and vegetables in your refrigerator for a quick afternoon snack.
• Make a smoothie with a blend of your favorite fruits and vegetables.
• Make snacks/appetizers such as canapes, replace crackers with slices of raw zucchini or cucumber.
• Make a quick vegetable soup by boiling vegetable broth with beans, onions, carrots, and potatoes, or whatever vegetables you prefer.

Try this quick and refreshing smoothie recipe.

Quick Avocado Pineapple Spinach Smoothie

• 2 cups unsweetened coconut water
• 1 cup diced pineapple
• 2 cups ice
• 1 ripe avocado
• 2 cups baby spinach, washed and drained
• honey to taste

Combine all ingredients in a blender and blend. Add honey to taste and immediately serve.

(Article from the National Institute on Aging, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services)

It’s important for your body to have plenty of fluids each day. Water helps you digest food, absorb nutrients from food, and then get rid of the unused waste.

Water is found in foods—both solids and liquids, as well as in its natural state. With age, you might lose some of your sense of thirst. Furthermore, some medicines might make it even more important to have plenty of fluids. Water is a good way to add fluids without adding calories. 

Try these tips for getting enough fluids:

• Don’t wait until you feel thirsty to drink water or
• other fluids.
• Take sips of water, or juice between bites.
• Add liquids throughout the day.
• Have a cup of low-fat soup as an afternoon snack.
• Drink a full glass of water when you take a pill.
• Have a glass of water before you exercise.
• Drink fat-free or low-fat milk, or other drinks without added sugars.
• If you drink alcoholic beverages, do so sensibly and in moderation. That means up to one drink per day for women and up to two drinks for men.

Don’t stop drinking liquids if you have a urinary control problem. Talk with your doctor about treatment.

Find more information online.

The Meals on Wheels nutrition program provides home delivered nutrition services targeted to persons 60 years of age or older as well as younger individuals who may have a disability and are temporarily unable to prepare meals for themselves due to illness or accident.

Weekly meals are available for in-home delivery. Priority is given to older individuals with the greatest economic and social need, with special emphasis on low-income minority individuals, older individuals with limited English proficiency, and individuals at risk for institutional placement. The program is targeted to support eligible adults to remain independent in their own homes with support by this program.

The meals program currently provides a weekly, contact-free meal delivery of 11 flash frozen meals. Meals are delivered one time per week.

Apply by calling the Department of Family Services 703-324-5409.

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) can be used like cash to buy food from authorized retailers and online from Amazon and Walmart but cannot be used for delivery fees.

Recipients receive an Electronic Benefit Transfer card. Your account is debited each time eligible food items are purchased. A secret Personal Identification Number is required.

Your household must meet certain requirements to be eligible for SNAP benefits. The application process can be done by computer or phone—no need to come in-person.

Apply online or call 1-855-635-4370.

For details, call the Department of Family Services Customer Care Line at 703-324-7500, TTY 711.

(Article from the Department of Neighborhood & Community Services)

After being closed for more than a year, select Fairfax County Senior Centers re-opened to the public on Tuesday, June 29. Members are welcome to visit any of the re-opened centers to use fitness rooms and computer labs, play games, and socialize.

Staff and instructor-led programs are not being offered but are scheduled to resume when senior centers open at full capacity on Sept. 7, 2021. No temperature or daily health checks are required to visit any of the re-opened centers. However, please stay home if you feel ill. If you are not fully vaccinated against COVID-19, wear a mask during your visit. Participants will be required to sign a liability waiver to visit senior centers.

Current hours of operation are Tuesday through Friday 9 a.m.–4 p.m. The re-opened locations include Herndon, Lewinsville, Lincolnia, Little River Glen, Lorton, and Sully Senior Centers, as well as Kingstowne Center for Active Adults and Wakefield Senior Center at Audrey Moore RECenter.

Locations that remain closed include Bailey’s, Hollin Hall, James Lee, Pimmit Hills, Providence, and South County Senior Centers. 

The Virtual Center for Active Adults will continue to offer virtual classes and programs throughout the summer. Find the VCAA’s weekly events online.

Go online for the latest information about the Senior Center re-opening plan—including additional center re-openings and FAQs.

Fairfax Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) provides volunteer advocates for abused and neglected children referred by the Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court.

Volunteers must commit to their assigned child(ren) throughout the life of the case (an average of two years) and visit them twice monthly adhering to COVID-19 safety precautions. The CASA volunteer is often the only consistent adult in the life of that child.

The first step in becoming a CASA volunteer is to attend a virtual information session. Visit their website or send an email.

The Shepherd Centers are a non-profit organization sponsored by local area congregations, community groups, and individuals to serve adults 50 years and older.

Its primary purpose is to assist older adults to live independently in their homes and to offer programs for enrichment and socialization. They also provide transportation service. You must apply for the transportation service. Once accepted into the service, a request for a ride must be five days in advance.

The centers are also seeking volunteers. Call or email specific sites for information on what is available.

• Annandale/Springfield 703-941-1419, ShepherdsCenter-Annandale.org
• Fairfax/Burke 703-323-4788, SCFBVA.org
• McLean/Arlington/Falls Church 703-506-2199, SCMAFC.org 
• Oakton/Vienna/Reston/Herndon/Great Falls 703-281-0538, SCNOVA.org
• South County 703-799-0505, email SCSC-Transport@verizon.net
• Western Fairfax County 703-246-5920, SCWFC.org

A medical appointment or trip to the pharmacy is a challenge if you no longer drive. Consider becoming a volunteer driver or office assistant/ride scheduler through one of these organizations.

Herndon Village Network
703-375-9439, HerndonVillageNetwork.org

Mount Vernon at Home
703-303-4060, MountVernonAtHome.org

Reston Community Center
703-390-6198, RestonCommunityCenter.com/About-Reston/RCC-Rides

(Article from Northern Virginia Senior Olympics)

The 2021 Northern Virginia Senior Olympics (NVSO) are a go for Sept. 18-30.

Events include golf, 10-pin bowling, swimming, pickleball, croquet, bocce, horseshoes, cycling, orienteering, miniature golf, sudoku, jigsaw puzzles, crossword puzzles, yo-yo, cornhole toss, basketball field goals and free throws, and more.

Registration begins Saturday, July 31 at Nvso.us and closes Monday, Sept. 6.

The cost is $15 which covers multiple events. There are additional fees for golf, 10-pin bowling, cycling, and orienteering. All past NVSO participants will receive a brochure in July with detailed information.

Participants must be 50 years of age by Dec. 31 and live in a sponsoring jurisdiction. “It is expected that all participants and volunteers are vaccinated against COVID-19 and follow protocols in place during the competitions,” says Michael McLaughlin, NVSO
acting chairman. 

Sponsoring jurisdictions are the cities of Alexandria, Fairfax and Falls Church and the counties of Arlington, Fairfax, Fauquier, Loudoun, and Prince William.

Find information online or call 703-508-0331.

July and August Fairfax County Secure Document Shredding, 7-11 a.m.*
Residential collection events are open to Fairfax County and residents of the Clifton, Herndon, the Town of Vienna, and the cities of Fairfax and Falls Church. Shredding is on a first come, first-serve basis. You must be in line by 11 a.m. Find details online.

• Saturday, July 10, South Lakes High School, 11400 South Lakes Drive, Hunter Mill District
• Saturday, July 24, Kilmer Middle School, 8100 Wolf Trap Road, Providence District
• Saturday, Aug. 7, Lake Braddock High School, 9200 Burke Lake Road, Braddock District
• Saturday, Aug. 14, Gerry Hyland Government Center, 8350 Richmond Hwy., Lee District

Wednesday, July 7, ADA Virtual Jeopardy Game, 2-3:30 p.m., Free.*
Do you have questions about the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)? If so, this virtual ADA game of jeopardy is a fun way to learn. Regional centers in the ADA National Network will answer your questions. You may also join in the fun by suggesting bonus round questions. Submit a question when you register, and it might be picked for the bonus round. You must register online by Tuesday, July 6.

Wednesday, July 7, Parks and Recreation Summer Entertainment Series Returns.*
Back live and in-person—evening concerts, morning children’s shows and drive-in movies. A complete listing of performances, dates and times can be found online. Be sure to sign up for email blasts to get concert updates.

Saturday, July 24, Garden Tour and Ice Cream, 10-11:30 a.m., Green Spring Gardens*
Tour the vibrant summer gardens with a Green Spring Master Gardener. Finish at the historic house lawn to enjoy delicious ices, served with toppings and garnishes. $15 per person. Register online or call 703-642-5173. Green Spring Gardens, 4603 Green Spring Road.

Mondays, Aug., 2, 9, 23 and 30. In-Person Chair Yoga, 1-1:45 p.m., Sherwood Regional Public Library, Free.*
It’s back! Pull up a chair for this 45-minute class that meets in a large room with plenty of space to spread out. No registration necessary. Just show up at 2501 Sherwood Hall Lane. 703-765-3645.

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