Department of Family Services Alert:
Susan Voss is a Role Model for Aging Well
In November 2023, the Golden Gazette received an email from a 13-year-old named Jonathan D’Cruz. He wrote to recommend that I feature his neighbor, 91-year-old Susan Voss, in the Golden Gazette. Citing her as his role model for when he gets older, Jonathan shared that Susan lived a busy and happy life while making a positive impact on the lives of those around her. Interest piqued, I wanted to meet the woman who inspired this unusual introduction. Read more.
Celebrate Older Americans Month in May
Every year, May is recognized as Older Americans Month (OAM), a time to honor the contributions of older adults and address the issues impacting them. The theme of OAM this year is Powered by Connection, which highlights the impact social connections have on our health and overall well-being. In Fairfax County, many resources are available to encourage connections and reduce social isolation among older adults. Read more.
Spring Screening
May is Older Americans Month, a time to celebrate the health and well-being of our senior citizens. It's also a time to recognize the importance of screening for aging-related diseases. Rates of chronic conditions (like high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, high cholesterol, Type-2 diabetes, and cancer) have continued to rise, underscoring notable disparities in early screening and detection. Therefore, screening is an essential step towards maintaining good health and a healthy community. Read more.
May is Mental Health Awareness Month
Nearly 1 in 5 people experience a mental health concern each year, according to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). More than 1 in 20 adults experience serious mental illness that interferes with or limits major life activities. Mental illness, including depression, substance use disorders, anxiety, or psychosis can happen to anyone. By talking about mental health this May, you can help shine a light on the presence of mental health issues and eliminate stigma surrounding mental illness. Read more.
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