Department of Family Services Alert:
Margie Weiss Helps People Reach Their Full Potential
After achieving athletic success in gymnastics at a young age, Margie Weiss has gone on to coach and train countless athletes to succeed at the highest levels of competition, including her three children and her granddaughter. Her commitment to health and fitness has also led to a successful career as a personal trainer, where she helps people, both young and old, achieve their fitness goals, improve their health, increase their mobility and achieve a better quality of life. Read more.
Stay Active From Anywhere with the Virtual Center for Active Adults
Transportation. Illness. Weather. Mobility. These are some of the common barriers to participating in on-site senior programming. Fairfax County Neighborhood and Community Services’ Virtual Center for Active Adults (VCAA) has the solution. Read more.
Five Unexpected Things You Can Do with Your Library Card
September is Library Card Sign Up Month! While you may know that you can use your library card to check out books from a branch, a Fairfax County Public Library (FCPL) card can be used for a lot more, including some things you probably wouldn’t expect. From research and accessing online databases to borrowing items you would have never guessed would be at the library, read on to find out a few of the unexpected things you can do. Read more.
Resources to Help Scam Victims Recover
Realizing that you have been scammed can be a devastating experience. In addition to the stress and worry caused by the theft of your money, victims often feel ashamed for falling victim to a scam. Many suffer a loss of self-worth, blaming themselves and questioning their own intelligence and decision-making ability. Romance scam victims may be especially hard hit, experiencing all the previously mentioned emotions while also grieving the loss of what they thought was a loving relationship. Recovering after being scammed can take time, but there are organizations that can help. Read more.
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:
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 the Department of Public Works and Environmental Services (DPWES))
DPWES seeks feedback from residents on their current trash and recycling practices and their opinion on proposed county-wide zero waste strategies through a quick online survey. DPWES will summarize and share survey responses with the Board of Supervisors to help inform their review of the draft Solid Waste Management Plan this winter. By participating in the survey, you could win a $100 gift card. The survey is open August 1-September 30, 2024. Take the survey at engage.fairfaxcounty.gov/zerowastesurvey.
(by Gwen Jones, Department of Family Services)
September 23-27 is Falls Prevention Awareness Week, a nationwide observance created to raise awareness of the importance of preventing falls, how to reduce the risk of falls, and resources to help older adults live without fear of falling. In Fairfax County, a variety of programs and classes are available for older adults to help prevent falls.
ElderLink, a nonprofit partnership between Inova and the Fairfax Area Agency on Aging, aims to promote the well-being, safety and independence of older adults and caregivers. In keeping with that mission, ElderLink offers a variety of free fall prevention programs, including:
This award-winning, evidence-based workshop is designed to reduce the fear of falling and increase activity levels among older adults. Participants learn fall prevention strategies through discussion and activities, as well as gentle exercise to strengthen balance, flexibility and coordination. A Matter of Balance is available on the following dates and times:
Bingocize® is a 10-week program that combines the game of bingo with fall prevention exercises (seated or standing). Play bingo, win prizes, and meet new people while learning about techniques to reduce falls and increase activity. Bingocize® is available on the following dates and time:
To learn more about these programs, or other programs offered by ElderLink, please call the ElderLink Intake Line at 703-324-5374, TTY 711.
SAIL is a strength, balance and fitness class for adults 65 and older designed to help prevent falls. SAIL classes are offered at various Fairfax County Senior Center and Rec Center locations.
Learn more about Fairfax County Senior Centers at FairfaxCounty.gov/neighborhood-community-services/senior-centers. View Senior Center event calendars at FairfaxCounty.gov/neighborhood-community-services/calendars.
Learn more about Fairfax County Rec Centers at FairfaxCounty.gov/parks. Browse available classes and register at FairfaxCounty.gov/parks/parktakes.
Free SAIL classes are available online via Zoom on the Virtual Center for Active Adults. For class listings, visit bit.ly/novaVCAA.
(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:
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.
(by Stevie Kelly, Department of Family Services)
Did you know September is Hunger Action Month? There are lots of ways to talk about hunger in our community, and this year the Department of Family Services is focusing on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). SNAP helps eligible individuals and households buy groceries with a debit card, called an EBT card, that is automatically loaded with money for food every month. Many older adults may be eligible for SNAP benefits but think it’s too much trouble to apply. The Public Assistance and Employment Services (PAES) team is here to help. “SNAP is such an important support for people! More older adults should apply for SNAP, especially since they can receive credit for certain medical expenses, giving them more SNAP dollars to spend on groceries each month,” said Lisa Tatum, Division Director of Public Assistance and Employment Services (PAES). When asked about an important feature of SNAP, Lisa highlighted the ability to order groceries online at some retailers, saving shoppers time and hassle. “The opportunity to order groceries online and have them delivered is very helpful to people who may have challenges going to the grocery store.”
Do you already receive SNAP? Remember to check your card balance frequently and keep your PIN secret to help prevent fraud on your EBT card.
Visit FairfaxCounty.gov and search “hunger action month 2024” to learn more about SNAP and other food assistance options in our community. If you want to apply for SNAP, call 1-833-5-CALL-VA (1-833-522-5582) or visit CommonHelp.Virginia.gov.
(by Eileen McCartin, Ph.D., Executive Director, and Bonnie O’Leary, Outreach Manager, Northern Virginia Resource Center (NVRC) for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Persons)
Do you have hearing loss or love someone who does? Please join us at our free outreach event, Celebrate Communication 2024, at the Springfield Town Center on Saturday, September 28, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., main entrance, between the Yard House and Maggiano’s restaurant. We’ll be on the lower level next to the Lego store and Starbucks.
Now in its 22nd year, this unique information fair is hosted by NVRC. It is specifically designed for the deaf and hard of hearing community, their families and friends. Come learn about the latest communication technologies and apps. You’ll also find information about cochlear implants, hearing aids, tinnitus, telephone relay services, American Sign Language, and captioning. We will be showcasing the popular live captioning apps on devices provided by Google.
will be on hand to tell you about local services; the Virginia Department for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing will have information to share about their Technology Assistance Program. The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority will be issuing reduced fare ID cards for people with disabilities (bring your ID and proof of disability). Browse items from our popular deaf crafters. Chat with NVRC’s tech and outreach teams to learn about our device demonstration room, free educational programs and hearing screenings, ASL interpreter program, tinnitus support, and more.
Special thanks to our sponsors and donors to date: AARP, CapTel, ClearCaptions, Diglo, HearingLife, Lesner Hearing Center, National Court Reporters Foundation, Otolaryngology Associates, Service Source, Sorenson, VA Relay, VDDHH, and Wegmans.
Door prizes! Face painting for kids from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.! Photo ops with our Yellow Dog mascot! For more information, visit nvrc.org/celebratecommunication. Questions? Contact Bonnie O’Leary at boleary@nvrc.org.
(by Allegra Joffe, Fairfax Area Agency on Aging)
When you're a family caregiver, being prepared for emergencies is essential. Unexpected situations can arise at any moment, and having a comprehensive emergency plan can make all the difference. Start by assessing potential risks such as natural disasters, medical emergencies, and power outages. Sign up for the Fairfax County alert system at FairfaxCounty.gov/alerts to receive quick notifications about emergencies in your area. Develop a communication plan with a list of emergency contacts and establish two meeting places – one near your home and one outside your neighborhood. Identify multiple evacuation routes and practice them regularly, making special considerations for mobility issues. Inform and train all family members and caregivers about the emergency plan and conduct regular drills to ensure everyone knows what to do.
Prepare for medical needs by creating a detailed medical history, list of prescriptions, identification, and emergency contacts for your loved one and keep them easily accessible. Specialized items like extra mobility aids, batteries for hearing aids, and spare glasses should be part of your kit. Assemble a well-stocked emergency kit that includes water, non-perishable food, a flashlight with extra batteries, a first aid kit, and a week's supply of prescription medications. Ensure you have communication tools like a fully charged cell phone with an extra battery and a battery-powered radio. Comfort items such as extra clothes, blankets, and personal hygiene products are also important. Financial preparedness includes having some cash in small bills and coins. For additional resources, the Division of Emergency Preparedness and Response’s website, FairfaxCounty.gov/health/emergency, offers tips and tools to keep you and your community safe, as well as guides on how to make an emergency kit and plan. By following these steps, you can ensure the safety and well-being of you and your loved ones during any unexpected situation. If you wish to learn more about caregiving resources, call our Aging, Disability, and Caregiving Resources Line at 703-324-7948 or visit FairfaxCounty.gov/OlderAdults.
Oral Health Techniques for Caregivers
Friday, September 13, Noon-1 p.m.
In this virtual webinar presentation, hosted by the Fairfax Area Agency on Aging, Dr. Rosa Mathai, DMD, will educate family caregivers on how good oral health is synonymous with good overall health, and how the ability to speak and eat remains relevant well into old age. Many caregivers are tasked with the responsibility of taking care of a loved one’s teeth when they are no longer able. In this webinar you will learn how to care for someone else’s mouth as if it is your own. Learning objectives include understanding the caregiver’s role in maintaining oral hygiene even for patients who do not express a desire for dental care, having a basic understanding of oral health and hygiene, understanding why dentistry is relevant to good health, reviewing oral hygiene techniques, and recognizing which mouths require professional intervention and how to get it. Register online at bit.ly/CAREWEB1 or call 571-407-6961.
Fall Prevention 101 - In Spanish
Friday, September 20, Noon-1 p.m.
In this virtual Spanish webinar presentation, hosted by the Fairfax Area Agency on Aging, join Carmen Pastor, Outreach Assistant with Northern Virgina Falls Prevention Alliance with Marymount University, as she teaches a webinar for family caregivers about fall prevention. This session will provide valuable insights into the common causes of falls among older adults and practical strategies to mitigate these risks. Learn about home safety modifications, balance and strength exercises, and the importance of regular health check-ups. Don’t miss this opportunity to enhance your caregiving skills and help ensure the safety and well-being of your family members. Register online at bit.ly/CharlasEducativas or call 571-407-6961.
In-Person Dementia Friendly Information Session
Wednesday, September 25, Noon-1:45 p.m.
Join this in-person presentation at Insight Memory Care Center in Fairfax 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 Dementia Friendly Fairfax Action team members, Allegra Joffe, Supervisor with the Fairfax Area Agency on Aging, and Diane Watson, Dementia Friends Champion Volunteer. Space is limited and registration is required. Register online at bit.ly/DementiaFriendlyFairfax or call 571-407-6961.
The Saving Claire Project
Friday, September 27, 2-3:30 p.m.
In this virtual panel presentation, hosted by the Fairfax Area Agency on Aging, The Saving Claire Falls Prevention Project begins with a compelling documentary that delves into the complex nature of aging and the patterns that increase fall risk. Claire’s journey serves as a cautionary tale, highlighting her attitudes, actions, and the dramatic events that follow her fall. Sponsored in part by the Marymount Center for Optimal Aging (MCOA), the project continues with an interactive discussion and Q&A with a panel of professionals who will share their expertise on fall prevention. Register online at bit.ly/AAAPanel or call 571-407-6961.
(by Moriah Kitaeff, Department of Emergency Management and Security)
September is National Preparedness Month, an ideal time to ensure that you and your loved ones are ready for any emergency. One of the best ways to start is by gathering as a household to discuss plans for different types of emergencies. For instance, decide on a safe meeting place outside the home in case of a fire. During a tornado watch or warning, discuss the safest area in your home and ensure that everyone, especially those with mobility challenges, can reach it. In the case of thunderstorms, make sure everyone knows to go inside if they hear thunder or see lightning.
Regardless of the type of emergency, creating an emergency kit is essential, and it should be inclusive to meet everyone's specific needs. For those with mobility challenges, consider adding items like a wheelchair or walker repair kit, medications, and any specialized equipment they may require. Individual needs may vary, so think about what items are essential for each person in your household on a day-to-day basis, such as medications, glasses, or communication devices.
By planning and preparing now, you can help ensure the safety of everyone in your household during a crisis. To learn more about the importance of emergency planning and how to start or improve your own plan, visit FairfaxCounty.gov/emergency/readyfairfax/makeanemergencyplan.
Do you have a calling to make a difference in your community during disasters? Then consider joining the Volunteer Emergency Team (VET)!
VET Members:
VET members are ready to be called upon to volunteer when an emergency happens. Volunteers will be signed up in Fairfax County’s Volunteer Management System (VMS) and will be the first ones called on when volunteers are needed. Volunteers will have the opportunity (but are not required) to participate in training and exercises year-round, as well as outreach events to educate residents on how to prepare for emergencies.
Interested? Apply today: bit.ly/FairfaxVET.
(by Stevie Kelly, Department of Family Services)
September is Workforce Development Month and the Fairfax County Employment Services team wants you to know about the Northern Virginia Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP). SCSEP places mature workers in part-time, temporary, paid community service training to prepare for permanent employment outside the program. SCSEP participants receive a stipend of $12 an hour while participating in worksite or job readiness training!
Mr. G joined SCSEP in March 2020, right as workplaces everywhere were adapting due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Instead of being discouraged by this unprecedented challenge, Mr. G jumped in with both feet and gained new skills and confidence at several host agencies over the next four years. Mr. G took full advantage of the resources and support offered through Virginia Career Works Northern (VCW) and Fairfax County Employment Services, sharing that he felt “continuously encouraged and motivated” by program staff. Mr. G’s commitment and hard work paid off – his most recent SCSEP placement at the Consumer Wellness Center led to employment!
Through his new position, Mr. G pays it forward by introducing clients to VCW employment resources and remains grateful for SCSEP’s impact on his family and career.
SCSEP is accepting applications from eligible job seekers age 55 and older. The Northern Virginia SCSEP Program is delivered in close coordination with The SkillSource Group, Inc. and the Virginia Career Works Northern Region. To learn more about SCSEP, visit FairfaxCounty.gov and search “SCSEP” or call 703-488-8196.
(by Gwen Jones, Department of Family Services)
The non-profit Shepherd's Centers are sponsored by local area congregations, corporate partners, community groups, and individuals to serve adults 50 and older. The centers offer free transportation for medical appointments and non-medical needs (e.g. grocery shopping) for adults 50+ who live in their center’s service area and are able to independently get in and out of a car.
Shepherd's Centers need volunteers! Drivers are needed and can accept ride requests that work with their schedule. There are also other ways you can help. Contact the Shepherd’s Center near you to learn more about volunteer opportunities:
(by Tanya Erway, Volunteer Solutions Recruitment Coordinator)
If you’ve been thinking about becoming a volunteer or adding a new and enriching role to your life, please check out the options below, or those on bit.ly/FFXVOLUNTEER.
Volunteer Solutions – a program of the Fairfax County Department of Family Services – serves older adults, adults with disabilities, and family caregivers. Consider improving quality of life and increasing social connections by social visiting, grocery shopping, driving others for errands and appointments, and more. Schedules are flexible. Volunteers are especially needed in the Alexandria, Falls Church, and Annandale regions. Skilled volunteers are also needed throughout Fairfax County senior centers. Go to bit.ly/FXVSVOL to learn more. Contact VolunteerSolutions@FairfaxCounty.gov or 703-324-5406 with questions.
For fifty years, The Women’s Center has provided mental health counseling, support, and education to the metropolitan area to help people live healthy, stable, and productive lives – regardless of their ability to pay. Located in Vienna, the center has grown to serve not just women, but clients of all gender identities, families, young adults, and children.
The center relies on volunteers to help keep things running smoothly in the office and at events. To learn more, go to TheWomensCenter.org/volunteer or contact the volunteer coordinator, Viki Kinsman, at vkinsman@thewomenscenter.org, or 571-385-1617.
Retired and Senior Volunteer Program - Northern Virginia (RSVP-NV) is one of the core programs of AmeriCorps Seniors and is sponsored by Volunteer Fairfax. RSVP-NV’s mission is to mobilize the skills and experience of its volunteers, aged 55+, to help meet community needs in Arlington County, Fairfax County, and the cities of Fairfax, Falls Church, and Alexandria. Volunteer activities vary and include community food support, education success, transportation assistance for seniors, workforce preparation, and emergency preparedness. Volunteers connect to opportunities that best match their interest, location preferences, and preferred time commitment.
Consider supporting causes you care about and pledge to get things done for your community by joining other RSVP members. AmeriCorps is not a moment. It’s a movement.
Go to bit.ly/RSVPNova to learn more and register. Contact Karen Coon for more information at kcoon@volunteerfairfax.org or 703-403-5360.
If you wish to submit volunteer opportunities for a future column, contact Tanya Erway at VolunteerSolutionsRecruitment@FairfaxCounty.gov.
(by Fairfax County Office of Elections)
The Fairfax County Office of Elections is looking for community members to serve as election officers for the November 5, 2024, election.
In particular, bilingual officers who speak Korean and Vietnamese are needed. This is a great opportunity to get to know your neighbors and help your community!
You will receive $250 as a thank you for your service.
Learn more and apply at FairfaxCounty.gov/elections/officers/new-officers.
(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 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.
The COA was in recess during the month of August. SHAPE the Future of Aging Initiative Development Committees continue to meet regularly to continue the work of operationalizing the recommendations in the SHAPE the Future of Aging Plan.
In Person: Pennino Building, 12011 Government Center Pkwy, Fairfax – Room 200 & 206
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 Ana.Valdivia@FairfaxCounty.gov or call 571-407-6960 TTY: VA Relay 711.
Love to Sing?
Register for one of Encore Creativity for Older Adults singing ensembles for adults 55+. The Encore Chorale of Fairfax, singing everything from choral classics to secular holiday favorites, meets Tuesdays starting Sept. 3, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Fairfax ROCKS, singing choral arrangements of rock 'n' roll hits, meets Fridays starting Sept. 6, 10:30 a.m.-Noon. Fee is $190/ensemble. Register at encorecreativity.org/fall2024. Visit encorecreativity.org or call 301-261-5747 for more information.
Tysons-Pimmit Regional Library Quarterly Book & Media Sale
Thursday, September 5-Sunday, September 8, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Tysons Pimmit Regional Library, 7584 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church
Large selection of books and media for all ages and interests. On Sunday, pay $10 for a full grocery sack or half price if less. Visit tysonslibraryfriends.org for more information.
Fairfax Lions Club Dining for Dollars Fundraiser
Tuesday, September 10, 11 a.m.-9 p.m.
Support a worthy cause by dining at Foster’s Grille in Vienna. Simply ask the cashier to put your receipt in the Lion's box, and Foster's will donate 20% of your purchase to Lions' youth, sight, hearing, and community programs. Donate used eyeglasses and hearing aids during your visit. Questions? Contact Lion Tom at golfertom1943@gmail.com.
Resources and Guidance for Managing Primary Progressive Aphasia
Wednesday, September 11, 1-2:30 p.m.
Hybrid! Virtual and in-person at Insight Memory Care Center, 3955 Pender Drive, Suite 100, Fairfax
Primary Progressive Aphasia (PPA) is one of the subtypes of Frontotemporal dementia, characterized predominantly by the gradual loss of the ability to speak, read, write, and understand what others are saying. Learn more about PPA, including the signs and symptoms, how it differs from other dementias, and the resources available. Learn more or register at insightmcc.org/get-involved/events.
Fundamentals of Estate Planning
Thursday, September 12, 1:30-3 p.m.
Sherwood Regional Library, 2501 Sherwood Hall Lane, Alexandria
Join Mt. Vernon AAUW and attorney Gretchyn G. Meinken for an important discussion about estate planning, and what can happen when you fail to plan. We will discuss the basic documents you should have, and ways to avoid probate with other estate planning tools available such as trusts and beneficiary designations. No registration.
Better Said Than Done “Mirrors & Magic: True Stories of Wonder”
Thursday, September 12, 7-8:30 p.m.
Old Town Hall, 3999 University Drive, Fairfax
Join storytellers Carol Moore, Laura Packer and Jessica Robinson for a night of storytelling that will take you on a journey from reality to beyond. Stories intended for a mature audience. This event is free. For more information, visit fairfaxva.gov/government/parks-recreation/cultural-arts or contact Christine Vincent at Christine.Vincent@fairfaxva.gov or 703-385-2712.
Brain Gym
Friday, September 13, 2-3 p.m.
George Mason Regional Library, 7001 Little River Turnpike, Annandale
Improve your brain health with fun exercises like sudoku, word puzzles, memorization games, and more. No registration. For more information, please contact George Mason Regional Library at 703-256-3800.
Northern Virginia Senior Olympics
September 14-29
Cheer on the athletes competing in the 2024 Northern Virginia Senior Olympics. For events, dates, times and venues, visit nvso.us.
Memory Screenings
Monday, September 16, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
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. The memory screenings are held on the third Monday of every month at the Wellness Center for Older Adults (4027B Olley Lane, Fairfax). Call to reserve a 30-minute appointment at 703-970-3601.
AARP Presents: Online Relationship Scams
Tuesday Sept 17, 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
Understanding Your Social Security Benefits
Tuesday, September 17, 7-8 p.m.
Learn how to make the most of your Social Security benefits in this webinar presented by Pamela Sams, CRPC, BFA and hosted by the Women’s Center. Fee is $20. To register and to find additional workshops, visit thewomenscenter.org/events/. For more information call 703-281-2657.
Putting for Pets: Benefiting Homeless Pets at the Fairfax County Animal Shelter
Monday, September 23, 9 a.m.
Bull Run Golf Club, 15000 Bull Run Estates Dr., Haymarket
Golf tournament hosted by the Friends of the Fairfax County Animal Shelter. Cost is $180/golfer and includes 18 holes of golf, generous swag goodie bag, and more. Singles and groups of fewer than four players are welcome. Registration closes Sept. 17. For more information or to register, visit ffcas.org/event/putting-for-pets-2024/
George Mason Friends Book Sale
Wednesday, September 25-Sunday, September 29
George Mason Regional Library, 7001 Little River Turnpike, Annandale
Preview sale, Sept. 25, 5-8 p.m. Entry fee $20/adult. General sale, Sept. 26-29, 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.
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.
Access the print version of this month's newsletter.*
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.