GOLDEN GAZETTE A Monthly Newspaper for Older Adults in the Fairfax Area April 2015 Serving Older Adults for 38 Years Health Care Decisions Day Thursday, April 16, is Health Care Decisions Day in Virginia. The day is designed to raise public awareness of the need to plan ahead for health care decisions related to end-of-life care and medical decision making whenever patients are unable to speak for themselves, and to encourage the specific use of Advance Directives to communicate these important health care decisions. Virginia Advance Directives All adults in Virginia have a right to prepare a document called an “Advance Directive” to put their wishes regarding medical care in writing. An Advance Directive lets other people know the types of medical care you do and do not want in the event you are unable to express your wishes on your own. There are two kinds of Advance Directives: 1. Appointment of an Agent You may authorize another person, such as a spouse, child, or friend, to be your “agent” or “proxy” to make decisions for you if you become incapable of making informed health care decisions for yourself. You also can specifically tell your agent what kinds of care you do and do not want. Cont. p. 4 In This Issue... National Volunteer Week Events ................. 5 Estate Planning ............................................. 7 Volunteer Opportunities ............................. 14 Healthy Aging and Exercise ....................... 15 April Gardening ........................................... 18 Community Calendar .................................. 24 1 VOL. 38, NO. 12 Free Health Insurance Advice Making the right decision about health insurance can save you money in the long run, so don’t hesitate calling the Virginia Insurance Counseling and Assistance program (VICAP) with your questions. VICAP is a health insurance counseling program administered by the Fairfax Area Agency on Aging. The program assists older adults and persons with disabilities that need help understanding Medicare, Medicare health plans, Medicare supplemental insurance plans, and prescription assistance plans, including Medicare Part D. VICAP also offers guidance with purchasing long-term care insurance, sorting medical bills or forms, and assistance with Medicaid problems. Program counselors are volunteers who have received special training on health insurance issues and have been certified by the Virginia Department for the Aging and Rehabilitative Services and the State Corporation Commission’s Bureau of Insurance. Cont. p. 4 NOTE: The TTY number for all contacts is 711, unless otherwise stated. For services for older adults, visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/olderadults or call 703-324-7948. GOLDEN GAZETTE Published by the COUNTY OF FAIRFAX, VIRGINIA Department of Family Services FAIRFAX AREA AGENCY ON AGING 12011 Government Center Parkway Suite 708 Fairfax, VA 22035-1104 Telephone: Toll-free: TTY: FAX: 703-324-7948 1-866-503-0217 711 703-653-6635 Website: www.fairfaxcounty.gov/ olderadults The Golden Gazette is a free, monthly newspaper dedicated to serving persons age 60 and over in Fairfax County and the cities of Fairfax and Falls Church. Grace Lynch Communications & Community Outreach Manager Retha Lockhart Editor & Advertising Manager 703-324-5479 [email protected] Karen Kelly Golden Gazette Assistant 703-324-5633 [email protected] Publication of advertising contained herein does not constitute endorsement. To comply with the Americans With Disabilities Act, the Golden Gazette is available in alternative formats. Call 703-3245633, TTY 711, for information. DEADLINES ALWAYS the first of the month one month in advance (for ads, ad payments, and announcements). The next deadline is April 1 for the May issue. ADDRESS ADDITIONS/CORRECTIONS AND CONTRIBUTIONS Although the Golden Gazette accepts limited paid advertisements, reader contributions are critical to ensure continuation of the publication. We are very grateful to all of you who do send contributions, regardless of the amount (the average contribution is about $10). Please pay by check only, no cash. Please note that contributions are entirely voluntary. If you have an address change, are receiving duplicates, or if you would like to make a contribution, please complete the form below and mail to: Golden Gazette, Area Agency on Aging, 12011 Government Center Parkway, Suite 708, Fairfax, VA 22035-1104. Checks should be made payable to County of Fairfax. Please list your current address below or attach your mailing label and check the appropriate lines. If you prefer to call about address changes, the number is 703324-5633. _____ Contribution check attached. _____ I am NOT currently on your mailing list. Please add my name and address. _____ I am already on your mailing list. _____ I am moving. My new address in the Fairfax area will be: NAME____________________________________________________ CURRENT ADDRESS________________________________ _________________________________________Zip:_________ NEW ADDRESS (if applicable)___________________________ ______________________________________ Zip:____________ TELEPHONE (in case we have a question)___________________ The names and addresses of persons receiving the Golden Gazette are subject to disclosure pursuant to the Virginia Freedom of Information Act, VA Code Sec. 2.1340 thru 346.1. Inquiries or complaints concerning this policy should be directed to the Fairfax Area Agency on Aging, 12011 Government Center Parkway, #708, Fairfax, VA 22035-1104. The Fairfax Area Agency on Aging contracts with McDonald Eudy Printers, Temple Hills, MD, for printing and mailing services. April COA Meeting The Fairfax Area Commission on Aging (COA) is the community advisory committee for the Fairfax Area Agency on Aging. The COA meets on the third Wednesday of each month, except August. The public is welcome to attend and join in the comment period that begins each session. The next COA meeting will be Wednesday, April 15, at Noon, at the Providence Community Center, 3001 Vaden Dr., Fairfax. For more information, visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/ dfs/olderadultservices/coa.htm. For meeting access needs, call 703-324-5403. 2 Art Beat: April is National Poetry Month: By Julie Ellis “A rose is a rose is a rose.” This line is from Gertrude Stein’s poem “Sacred Emily,” written in 1913 and published in 1922 in “Geography and Plays.” Apparently Gertrude Stein said that in the time of Homer “the poet could use the name of the thing and the thing was really there.” This was interpreted as meaning “things are what they are.” This is very Zen-like to me. In addition to April being National Poetry Month, April 30 is National Poem in Your Pocket Day. The idea is simple–select a poem you love, carry it with you, then share it with family and friends. The Academy of American Poets recommends ways to celebrate this special month. Here are some: to meet other writers in your area and find out about your local poetry writing community. 10. Start a poetry reading group. 11. Write a letter to a poet thanking them for their work. 12. Ask the United States Post Office to issue more stamps celebrating poets. 13. Read the first chapter of Muriel Rukeyer’s inspiring book, “The Life of Poetry.” 14. Read Allen Ginsberg’s classic essay about Walt Whitman’s “Leaves of Grass.” 15. Sign up for a poetry class or workshop. If you have a favorite poem, share it on April 30 with a friend or family member. My favorite is by E. E. Cummings. Can you guess what it is? To contact Julie Ellis,email jewelbeam1@yahoo. com. 1. Sign up for Poem-a-Day and read a poem each morning. Go to www.poets.org. I have done this and enjoy reading them each and every day. It helps me broaden my appreciation of the arts. 2. Deepen your daily experience by reading Edward Hirsch’s essay “How to Read a Poem.” 3. Memorize a poem. 4. Create an anthology of your favorite poems on the website www.poets.org. 5. Encourage a young person to participate in the Dear Poet project, www.poets.org. 6. Buy a book of poetry from your local bookstore. 7. Learn more about poets and poetry events in your state. 8. Attend a poetry reading during the Creative Aging Festival in May. A poetry reading will be held at the Hollin Hall Senior Center, 1500 Shenandoah Road, Alexandria, 703-765-44573, on Tuesday, May 5, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.; and by the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute, on Friday, May 22, 10 a.m.-Noon, at Jammin Java, 227 Maple Ave. E, Vienna, 703-255-1566. 9. Read a poem at an open mic. It’s a great way Care When You Need It! help you plan ahead shop, fix meals, help as needed take you where you want to go manage things at home for you bring loving friendship and fun 703-904-3994 GraceFulCare.com For information on volunteering, call the Fairfax Area Agency on Aging's Volunteer Intake Line at 703-324-5406, TTY 711, or go to www.fairfaxcounty.gov/dfs/ olderadultservices/volunteersolutions.htm. 3 Free Health Insurance cont. from p. 1 your wishes, but it may not be possible to anticipate all possible medical situations for which your written health care directive might apply. The best way to protect your interests, however, is to execute both. They are not connected with any insurance company and their services are entirely free. Counselors can assist you by explaining policy benefits and help you to understand, file, or resolve health insurance claims. Depending on your needs, counseling can be provided by telephone, in the program’s Fairfax office, or in your home. Many residents take advantage of the VICAP Web page to help understand their health plan needs or options. It contains a list of outreach events; an electronic tool box to assist you with most related issues; and a list of podcasts that explain certain issues. Go to www.fairfaxcounty.gov/dfs/olderadultservices/vicap.htm. For more information, to schedule an appointment, or to arrange for a speaker for a group, call 703-324-5851. Are Advanced Directives Only for End-ofLife Issues? No. Advance directives may address any type of care in situations in which you cannot Cont. p. 6 ALWAYS BUYING OLD ITEMS Estate? Downsizing? Cleanouts? Collections? Polite and professional 240-994-0941 Keith Krueger Antiques Health Care Decisions cont. from p. 1 This authorization is called a “Power of Attorney for Health Care.” 2. Written Health Care Directive You also may state what kinds of health care you want or do not want if it is determined you are unable to express your own wishes. These instructions are referred to as a “living will.” Why Create an Advance Directive? An Advance Directive allows you to state your choices for health care or to name someone to make those choices for you, if you become unable to make decisions about your medical treatment. It enables you to say “yes” to treatment you want, or “no” to treatment you do not want. What Kind of Advance Directive Do I Need? You may execute a power of attorney for health care, a written health care directive, or both. Of the two kinds of Advance Directives, a power of attorney for health care is broader. A written health care directive is helpful in stating 4 National Volunteer Week—April 13-17 By Trina Mayhan-Webb, Director, Volunteer Solutions “To the world you may be one person but to one person you may be the world.” This is one of my favorite quotes and is appropriate for our volunteers! Volunteer Solutions realizes that you, our volunteers, make a difference every day in the lives of individuals you serve. Our records show that 3,789 volunteers logged in 103,721 hours of service to 1,464 county residents who receive help at home. Hundreds more benefit from your services at our senior centers, Adult Day Health Care Centers, and nursing facilities. A kind word, listening ear, developed friendship, pet stroke, ride to the doctor, or that organizational task you provide make a client’s day a bit more manageable. You give of yourself and bring skills, compassion, life experiences, and humor and ask for nothing in return, yet you receive friendship, appreciation, and satisfaction from those who need you most. The value of volunteer hours according to http://independentsector.org/volunteertime is $24.49/hour. This means your volunteer hours equal $2,540,127! This helps the county with options to expand supports to help older adults and adults with disabilities maintain their level of independence. Please accept our genuine, from the bottom of our hearts “THANK YOU” for choosing our organization, our population, and your community in which to volunteer. Allow us to recognize you, our Volunteer Solutions volunteers, specifically the week of April 13-17 in the following ways: • 6-7:30 p.m. Pizza Social at the Government Center, 12000 Government Center Pkwy., Fairfax, in the main atrium/forum. Meet members of the Fairfax Area Commission on Aging, your fellow volunteers, and staff from each region of the county. Door prizes will be awarded. RSVP to [email protected] by Thursday, April 9. Friday, April 17 • 1:30-3 p.m. Tea Social and refreshments at the Department of Family Services South County Office, 8350 Richmond Hwy., Room 221 A & B, Alexandria. Test your knowledge with our volunteer trivia. RSVP to [email protected] byThursday, April 9. For more information, email VolunteerSolutions @FairfaxCounty.gov, or call 703-324-5406. Note: Only active volunteers may attend these scheduled events. Senior Centers and Adult Day Health Care Centers will have a special recognition treat for their volunteers. Contact your center directly for more information. Venture Into Volunteering The Fairfax Area Agency on Aging, in partnership with AARP, the Fairfax County Park Authority, RSVP Northern Virginia, and The Positive Aging Coalition are hosting a volunteer fair, “Venture Into Volunteering,” on Thursday, April 2, 10 a.m.-Noon. The event is free and open to all adults, especially older adults and retirees. Come learn how your talents can make a difference to those in need in your community. McLean Community Center, 1234 Ingleside Ave., McLean. Call 703-704-6075or email Jeannine.Purdy @fairfaxcounty.gov. To volunteer to assist with planning future events, contact John Kort at [email protected]. Monday, April 13 • 8-9 a.m. Coffee Social with light refreshments. Meet and chat with volunteer managers in the Pennino Building Lobby, 12011 Government Center Pkwy., Fairfax. No need to RSVP. Appreciation prizes will be awarded to our early birds while supplies last. 5 Health Care Decisions cont. from p. 4 You may appoint any adult (18 years or older). This person needs to be accessible, but he/she does not need to live in Virginia. When you choose sss your agent, make sure that you have chosen someone who will be able to make potentially difficult decisions about your care, is willing to serve as your agent, and is aware of your wishes. You also should choose an alternate in case your first choice is unavailable (for make decisions for yourself. For example, an advance directive may address psychiatric (mental health) issues, chronic disease issues, and wishes about admissions to health care facilities. Can I Just Say My Wishes Orally? You should always share your health care wishes with your loved ones and your doctors. However, you may only create an Oral Advance Directive if you have a terminal condition and tell your wishes directly to your doctor. Also, putting your wishes in writing reduces confusion about your wishes since people often forget or misunderstand what was said. Cont. p. 10 FALLS CHURCH CLOCKWORKS What If I’m Unsure of What Health Care I Might Want? You should still execute an Advance Directive to describe the important values and beliefs you have. You also can indicate your religious beliefs. Often, these types of statements will help others make appropriate health care choices for you when you cannot make them yourself. Quality Clock Repair Antique/New Mantel Wall Clocks House Calls for Grandfather Clocks & Retirement Communities 703-536-6731 I Don’t Know Medical Terms So What Do I Need to Say? You can and should put your wishes in your own words. Just describe as best you can what medical care you do and do not want. I’m Young and/or In Good Health. Do I Need an Advance Directive? Yes. No one knows what the future might bring. For example, you might need someone to make medical decisions for you in the event that you suffer a sudden injury or illness (such as a car accident). It is better to choose this person in advance and tell him or her about your health care wishes. If you do not choose someone in advance, the law will assign a decision maker who must guess about your wishes. Wills & Trusts Special Needs Planning Medicaid Planning Who Should I Pick as My Health Care Power of Attorney? 6 Guardianships Probate Social Security Disability ESTATE PLANNING ESTATE PLANNING PLANNING ESTATE ESTATE PLANNING Probate Without Probate Accounting WILLS AND TRUSTS WILLS AND TRUSTS Trust and Probate Counsel Special Needs Trusts In Home Services • Elder Law Services By David A. Fontanella, Attorney Question: Is there a way I can use a will for estate planning and still avoid the probate accounting process? David A. Fontanella, Attorney 703.317.1927 Answer: Yes. Many people have come to believe that the only way to avoid the probate process is to use a living trust for estate planning. They want to avoid probate because they believe it is complicated, expensive, and takes a long time. While the living trust is often the perfect estate planning device for many people, it may not suit the needs of a person or family of modest means. Here is a way to avoid probate accounting that may fit your needs or the needs of your family. If your personal or family circumstances permit, it is possible to draft a will and use the provisions in the Virginia law for a procedure known as a “Statement in Lieu of Settlement of Account for a Decedent’s Estate.” After qualifying the personal representatives (the executors or administrators) and filing the Inventory, it may be possible to file this one-page form with the Commissioner of Accounts and avoid the entire burdensome and lengthy accounting process. Here are the rules: Thinking of Selling Your Home? As a Seniors’ Real Estate Specialist, I can help with: Selling “as is” Referrals & bids for repairs Decluttering, moving, auction companies Home stagers to “dress” your home Pat Kline, Broker, SRES 703.220.7653 Licensed in VA since 1989 Springfield/Fredericksburg, VA :ɏȾɏ<ʝʦɠ(OȫʑUFʋȾɏ6ɼʙXʤLʝɚ Always Best Care offers personal assistance DWKRPHRUKHOS¿QGLQJDVHQLRUOLYLQJ FRPPXQLW\WKDWEHVW¿WV\RXUQHHGV 1. All the distributees or residual beneficiaries under a will must qualify as personal representatives. For example, a surviving spouse who has children and intends that they all share equally in the estate may appoint them all as co-executors and thereby establish the basis for using the Statement in Lieu of Account. Similarly, anyone who appoints the residual beneficiary of a will as the executor may avoid formal accounting by using the Statement in Lieu of Account. Often, when a person qualifies to be an executor and /LFHQVHGERQGHGDQGLQVXUHG:HPSOR\HHV )OH[LEOHVFKHGXOHV 7UDQVSRUWDWLRQIRUDSSRLQWPHQWVDQGHUUDQGV 7ZRRI¿FHVLQ)DLUID[&RXQW\WRVHUYH\RX 6FRWW0DJXLUH /DXUD:DJHV HERNDON FAIRFAX (703) 463-9462 (703) 635-7587 www.AlwaysBestCare.com Cont. p. 8 7 Estate Planning cont. from p. 7 AARP Smart Driver Class files an inventory with the Commissioner of Accounts, the Commissioner’s office may suggest to the executor that a Statement in Lieu of Account may be possible. 2. There must be assets in the estate in excess of all debts and taxes that may be due. All charges against the estate must be paid. 3. The executor must sign a tax certificate certifying that all taxes have been paid in full or that they will be paid if they become due later. 4. Six months must elapse from the date of qualification of the executor before the Statement in Lieu of Account may be filed with the Commissioner. 5. All specific bequests in the will must have been distributed, and the receipts from these beneficiaries must be submitted to the Commissioner. 6. The executor must certify that any person entitled to a copy of the Statement in Lieu of Account has been sent a copy. This procedure may not be suitable for everyone. But, if you believe that your beneficiaries also can be your co-executors, look into this Statement in Lieu of Account procedure. Class costs $15/AARP members, $20/nonmembers (bring AARP card). When: Tuesday, April 21, and Thursday, April 23, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Where: Bailey’s Community Center, 5920 Summers Lane, Falls Church Register: Call 703-820-2131. LAWN MOWING $30 Weekly Service Weekly service entails: mowing, trimming and edging MARC’S LAWN CARE INC. 571-422-3195 NOTE: This article is not intended as legal advice and should not be relied upon without consulting legal counsel. If you have an estate planning question you would like answered in this column, contact David Fontanella at [email protected] or call him at 703-317-1927. Dependable, Attentive & Courteous LEAF Raking $13 per compiled bag Free Seminars for Family Caregivers Computer Coaching The Fairfax Caregiver Seminar Consortium presents its spring series for family caregivers of older adults and adults with a disability manage the day-to-day issues of caregiving. To register or to request reasonable ADA accommodations, go to www.fairfaxcounty.gov/ DFS/OlderAdultServices, or call 703-324-5205. for seniors, beginners, & job seekers Internet, email, Excel, PowerPoint Discounts for Seniors Rita O’Connor 703-204-2821 [email protected] 8 Join a Senior Center—Let the Fun Begin! Fairfax County residents age 55 and over may join any of the 14 senior centers sponsored by the Department of Neighborhood and Community Services. There is an annual membership fee (for information, go to www.fairfaxcounty.gov/ncs; call 703-324-4600, or email [email protected]). Senior centers offer classes, health programs, computer/Internet access, trips, and opportunities to socialize with others. The centers’ calendars are online at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/ncs/calendar.htm. Scroll down to find the senior centers’ calendars and select the month next to the facility. Lunch is available with a suggested donation between $2 and $6 based on age and income. Lunch reservations must be made at least 1 day in advance. Transportation may be available by Fastran bus at a nominal charge. Call your nearest senior center for information. The City of Fairfax (www.fairfaxva.gov) and the City of Falls Church (www.fallschurchva.gov) also sponsor senior centers and have their monthly schedules online. + Indicates a facility with a Senior+ program Bailey’s Bailey’s Senior Center 5920 Summers Lane Bailey's Crossroads, VA 22041 703-820-2131 Burke/West Springfield Center Without Walls David R. Pinn Community Center 10225 Zion Drive Fairfax, VA 22030 703-250-9181 Herndon+ 873 Grace Street Herndon, VA 20170 703-464-6200 Hollin Hall 1500 Shenandoah Road Alexandria, VA 22308 703-765-4573 James Lee+ James Lee Community Center 2855-A Annandale Road Falls Church, VA 22042 703-534-3387 Kingstowne 6488 Landsdowne Center Alexandria, VA 22315 703-339-7676 Lewinsville+ 1609 Great Falls Street McLean, VA 22101 703-442-9075 Lincolnia+ 4710 North Chambliss St. Alexandria, VA 22312 703-914-0223 Little River Glen+ 4001 Barker Court Fairfax, VA 22032 703-503-8703 Lorton+ 7722 Gunston Plaza Lorton, VA 22079 703-550-7195 Pimmit Hills 7510 Lisle Avenue Falls Church, VA 22043 703-734-3338 Wakefield Audrey Moore RECenter 8100 Braddock Road Annandale, VA 22003 703-321-3000 Other Locations for Senior Activities/Meals Central Senior Center Open Tuesdays & Fridays 15451 Lee Highway Centreville, VA 20121 703-303-3939 City of Fairfax Senior Center 4401 Sideburn Road Fairfax, VA 22030 703-359-2487 Providence 3001 Vaden Drive Fairfax, VA 22031 703-865-0520 City of Falls Church Senior Center 223 Little Falls Street Falls Church, VA 22046 703-248-5020 South County+ South County Govt. Center 8350 Richmond Hwy, #325 Alexandria, VA 22309 703-704-6216 David R. Pinn Community Center 10225 Zion Drive Fairfax, VA 22032 703-250-9181 Sully+ 5690 Sully Road Centreville, VA 20120 703-322-4475 9 Huntington Community Center 5751 Liberty Drive Alexandria, VA 22303 703-960-1917 Gum Springs Community Center 8100 Fordson Road Alexandria, VA 22306 703-360-6088 Health Care Decisions cont. from p. 6 WILLIAM MASONRY example, your first choice may not be found or may not be willing to be your agent). Stone & Brick Patios, Walkways, Retaining Walls, Fireplaces, Driveways, Finish Concrete, Repair Work. Licensed and Insured. All work is guaranteed. I Have Several Children. Can I Appoint All of Them? You really should pick just one person as your agent. Picking more than one person can result in a conflict, delay decision making, or result in an inability to make any decision at all. You can include your other children by letting them know your choices. You also may require your one agent to talk with your other children prior to making any decisions. 571-344-0836 If I Appoint an Agent, Will I Lose My Ability to Make My Own Decisions? No. Your agent only gets to make health care decisions for you if your doctor and another doctor or licensed clinical psychologist examine you and determine you cannot make decisions for yourself. Furthermore, as soon as you can speak for yourself again, decision-making authority returns to you. Regular Mowing as low as $30* Weekly xSpring Cleanup of Leaves and Debris xMulching xTrimming of Shrubbery FOR MOWING ONLY What If I Change My Mind? You may cancel or modify your Advance Directive anytime, but it is important that you tell others you have cancelled or changed it. LICENSED & INSURED Free Forms To download an Advance Directive form to print and fill out, go to www.vsb.org. Search for “free health care forms.” You should make copies and provide one to your doctor, take one when you go to the hospital, and give copies to your family and friends. Some of the forms and information available on the website are: Virginia Advance Directive, Virginia Advance Directive (Large Print), Virginia Advance Directive Statutory Form, Advance Directives Checklist, and Your Right to Decide. 10 3UHSDULQJ\RXU+RPHIRU 6DOHZLOOOLPLWLWVWLPHRQ WKHPDUNHWDQGRSWLPL]H LWVVDOHSULFH%XWPRYLQJ also known as Adult Companion Care LVDFKDOOHQJHOHWXVKHOS \RXPDQDJHDQ\RIWKH 3DPHOD3HSH%6 P\ULDGWDVNVVXFKDVWKH 2ZQHU$FFUHGLWHG6WDJLQJ IROORZLQJIRUDIDLUSULFH 3URIHVVLRQDO $63™) 3DPHOD#SUHVDOHSUHSFRP &OHDULQJRXWFORVHWV EDVHPHQWVDQGFOXWWHU ZZZSUHVDOHSUHSFRP &KDULWDEOHGRQDWLRQV &RQVLJQ$XFWLRQLWHPV :HW\SLFDOO\SULFHE\WKHSURMHFW WRDYRLGKRXUO\ELOOLQJFRQFHUQV 127(3UH6DOH3UHSDUDWLRQRI \RXUKRPHLVXVXDOO\WD[ GHGXFWLEOH–SOHDVHPHQWLRQWKLV WR\RXUDFFRXQWDQW -XQN5HPRYDO 6DOHUHODWHG5HSDLUV 1055 N. Fairfax Street, Suite 202 Alexandria, VA 22314 (703) 549-7894 www.accfamily.com 3URIHVVLRQDO$63™ +RPH6WDJLQJ FreeWorkshops:LearnToProtectYourAssets FromTheExpensesofProbate&LongͲTermCare Comelearnaboutthe4LevelsofLifetimeProtectionPlanningandhowyoucanprotectyourassetsfromprobatePLUS lawsuitsPLUSnursinghomeexpenses.LearnabouttheLivingTrustPlus™ͲͲtheonlytypeofassetprotectiontrustthat allowsyoutobetrusteeandretainaninterestinthetrustwhilealsoprotectingyourassetsfrombeingcountedbystate Medicaid agencies. You retain control over your trust assets because: (1) you can be trustee if desired; (2) you can retaintherighttoreceiveallthetrustincome;(3)youmayliveinyourrealestateorreceivetherentalincome;(4)you havetherighttochangetrustees;and(5)youhavetherighttochangebeneficiariesofthetrustanytimeyoudesire. AprilWorkshop Saturday,April18th,10am–Noon MarchWorkshop Saturday,March21st,10am–Noon LocationofBothSeminars:FarrLawFirm,10640MainStreet,SecondFloor,Fairfax,VA22030 CallNowToReserveYourSeat:703Ͳ691Ͳ1888 OrRegisterOnlineat:www.FarrLawFirm.com YourSpeakerisEvanH.Farr,CertifiedElderLawAttorney,creatoroftheLiving TrustPlus™AssetProtectionTrustandoneoftheforemostlegalauthoritiesin the Country in the fields of Medicaid Asset Protection and Medicaid Asset ProtectionTrusts.EvanisaNationalBestSellingAuthor,havingwrittenmany books, including Protect and Defend and the Nursing Home Survival Guide. VirginiahasnoprocedureforapprovingcertifyingorganizationssuchasNELF. 11 April Showers Bring May Flowers and Severe Weather, Too! gency. If your group would like a presentation on emergency preparedness, contact the Office of Emergency Management at 571-3501000 or email [email protected]. While April showers bring May flowers,they also bring the risk for severe weather. For Fairfax County, this could mean anything from severe thunderstorms to flooding. Do you know what to do if your home is impacted by severe weather? During the month of April, be ready and take action to prepare for weather that could affect you and your home. 1. Make a Plan: In case of severe weather, would you shelter-in-place or evacuate? If staying put, make sure your home is prepared ahead of the storm with clear gutters, and secure anything that could blow away. Know where to go in case you need to evacuate by establishing a meeting place with your family. Go to www.ReadyNOVA.org to customize your own emergency plan. 2. Build a Kit: Prepare an emergency kit for you, your family, pets, and service animals. Include food and water for at least three days and any medications you may need. Place copies of important documents, like your insurance policies, in waterproof containers to protect them from potential water or storm damage. Visit www.Ready.gov/build-a-kit for a complete list of recommended items. Take the extra step and have an emergency kit in your car, complete with water and snacks. Preparation can be the difference between an emergency and a disaster. 3. Stay Informed: Go to the Fairfax County Emergency Information blog at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/emergency/blog for changes in government services, such as the closure of Fastran shuttles or county facilities. Sign up for Fairfax Alerts at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/alerts to receive up-to-date weather, traffic, and emergency alerts straight to your personal email or phone. Remember to follow local weather stations and emergency broadcasts as well. Severe weather can impact us at any time. Be ready and resilient for any kind of emergency this April. For more information on preparing for an emergency, go to www.fairfaxcounty.gov/emer12 Forum to Discuss Villages Independent Living Project Villages help older adults stay in their communities by helping to coordinate and deliver services and support within their neighborhoods. The idea is simple, neighbor helping neighbor. It works by village organizers, who are typically 50 and older, creating volunteer programs for older adults in their community. The type of village created varies widely and may include a broad range of services such as rides to medical appointments and home health care. It also could include researching and negotiating with service providers for reliable home repair services or discounts at local theaters. Many villages also offer social activities and informational seminars for their members. The Long Term Care Coordinating Council is promoting the village concept in the Fairfax community and helping interested volunteers set up villages in their neighborhoods by providing them with guidance. They also assist existing Fairfax area villages exchange information and learn from each other. For additional information about the Long Term Care Coordinating Council, go to http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/hd/ ltccc/. A forum is scheduled for Thursday, April 30, 1:30-3:30 p.m., at the Providence Community Center, Multipurpose Room 2, 3001 Vaden Dr., Fairfax. The forum will include a welcome by Supervisor Smyth, an introduction to the villages’ concept by the county’s program coordinator followed by a panel of individuals experienced with the villages program. Come and see whether establishing a villages program in your neighborhood is something you’d like to pursue. Fairfax County’s Independent Living Project is a free 8-week series of educational seminars for older adults including exercise to improve strength and balance, presentations on county services, healthy cooking demos, advice on how to manage your health care and prescriptions, and more. Preregistration is required and space is limited. • Fridays, May 1-June 19, 1-3 p.m. Kingstowne Library, 6500 Landsdowne Centre, Alexandria To register, go to www.fairfaxcounty.gov/dfs/ olderadultservices/independent.htm, or call Jennifer Rodriguez at 703-324-7210. Attorneys and Counselors at Law x x x x x x x :LOOVDQG7UXVWV 3UREDWHDQG7UXVW$GPLQLVWUDWLRQ 0HGLFDLG3ODQQLQJ *XDUGLDQVKLSV 6SHFLDO1HHGV3ODQQLQJ 9HWHUDQV%HQHILWV 7D[,QWHUQDWLRQDO7D[ <DKQH0LRULQL//0 /LFHQVHGLQ'&0'1<DQG9$ $QGHUVRQ5RDG 6XLWH 0F/HDQ9$ Health Insurance Questions? Call the Virginia Insurance Counseling & Assistance Program (VICAP) at \DKQHPLRULQL#PLRULQLODZFRP ZZZPLRULQLODZFRP 703-324-5851. 13 Volunteer Opportunities Fairfax County’s Volunteer Solutions program needs drivers in multiple locations for the Korean Meals on Wheels routes. Vietnamese Meals on Wheels needs drivers in Falls Church and Annandale. A driver coordinator (bilingual English/Korean) is needed for Korean Meals on Wheels. Meals on Wheels volunteers may choose to drive weekly, biweekly, monthly, or be a substitute. Meals are delivered weekdays between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Volunteer Solutions also needs: • Drivers for grocery shopping, errands, and medical appointments. Opportunities at Senior Centers: • Knitting/crocheting, meditation, current events, and book club leaders in McLean; • Square dance, ballroom dance, basic guitar, basic Spanish, American Sign Language, ESL, art, and certified arthritis exercise instructors in McLean; • Canasta card game leader in Annandale; • Pilates and ballroom dance instructors in Annandale; • Front desk volunteers, weekdays, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., to check-in participants, answer phones, and do data entry in Falls Church; • Art, mosaic, and jewelry-making instructors in Annandale and Alexandria; • Ballroom dance instructor in Alexandria; • Teachers for beginning Spanish and beginning Italian in Alexandria; • Chair exercise instructor in Annandale. Opportunities at Adult Day Health Care Centers: • Front desk volunteers, weekdays, 9:159:45 a.m. in Alexandria; • Social companions, Mondays, 3-5 p.m. in Alexandria; • Pianist in Herndon; pianist/singer in Alexandria; • Lunch assistants to set tables, cut up food, serve lunch in Herndon; assist with lunch and play cards in Annandale. For more information on any of the Volunteer Solutions’ opportunities, call the Volunteer Intake Line at 703-324-5406, email [email protected], or go to www.fairfaxcounty.gov/dfs/ olderadultservices/volunteer-solutions.htm. The Jewish Council for the Aging needs volunteers for the 50+ Employment Expo at the Sheraton Premiere, Tysons Corner, on Tuesday, May 26. Shifts are 9 a.m.-Noon and 11:30 a.m. -2:30 p.m. Volunteers receive a free t-shirt and lunch. Go to www.accessjca.org/50plusjobexpos/, email [email protected], or call 703-324-5406 with questions about volunteering. The Alzheimer’s Association needs volunteers to serve on the walk planning committee. The committee meets once a month for one hour in theFairfaxoffice.Volunteerswillhelpwithcommunity awareness and outreach activities. Call 703-359-4440 or go to http://act.alz.org/2015novawalk. The Lincolnia Senior Doll Makers need volunteers to craft “teaching dolls” for hospitalized children. These dolls offer comfort, and help the physician explain the procedure. Help is needed with tracing patterns, cutting, sewing, turning and stuffing, crocheting hair to attach to the head, and finishing details. They meet on Tuesdays, 10 a.m.-Noon, at the Lincolnia Senior Center, 4710 N. Chambliss St., Alexandria. Call Terri Eldridge at 703-354-6656. The Hospital Elder Life Program needs volunteers at Mt. Vernon Hospital to work with older patients during their hospital stay. Volunteers work a weekly 3-hour shift to help with mobility, meal assistance, therapeutic activities, and relaxation to keep patients engaged, and to prevent mental and physical decline. Go to www.inova.org/help, email susan.heisey@inova. org, or call 703-204-3349. To have a volunteer opportunity considered for this column, contact Tanya Erway by the first of the month one month in advance. Email: [email protected] Phone: 703-324-5407 14 Healthy Aging and Exercise Like most people, you’ve probably heard that physical activity, including exercise, is good for you. If you’re already active, keep it up. It may even be time to push yourself a little harder, try a new activity, or find new ways to add exercise to your daily life. Regular exercise and physical activity are important to the physical and mental health of almost everyone, including older adults. Being physically active can help you continue to do the things you enjoy and stay independent as you age. Research also is finding that exercise is critically important for maintaining a healthy brain. Regular physical activity over long periods of time can produce long-term health benefits. That’s why health experts say that older adults should be active everyday to maintain their health. In addition, regular exercise and physical activity can reduce the risk of developing some diseases and disabilities that develop as people grow older. In some cases, exercise is an effective treatment for many chronic conditions. Studies show that people with arthritis, heart disease, or diabetes benefit from regular exercise. Exercise also helps people with high blood pressure, balance problems, or difficulty walking. Studies also link exercise to improved learning and memory in older adults. Physical activity and exercise are a little different but both refer to any voluntary movements you do that burn calories. Physical activities are activities that get your body moving like gardening, walking the dog, raking leaves, and taking the stairs instead of the elevator. Exercise on the other hand is a form of physical activity that is specifically planned, structured, and repetitive such as weight training, tai chi, or an aerobics class. With spring just around the corner, think about some things you could do to help your body stay limber and your mind sharp like walking, swimming, gardening, or dancing. Consider joining a local recreation center. There are many ways to be active every day. Find something you enjoy doing, include it in your regular routine, and try to increase your level of activity over time. Source: National Institutes of Health, National Institute on Aging Fairfax Area Commission on Aging to Receive Public Comment The Fairfax Area Commission on Aging will receive public comment at the Franconia Governmental Center, Community Room, 6121 Franconia Rd., Alexandria, on Wednesday, May 20, at Noon. The purpose is to seek a waiver for the Fairfax Area Agency on Aging (FAAA) from the Older Americans Act requirement that at least 5% of Title III-B federal funding be spent on inhome services (OAA, Section 321). In the Fairfax area, in-home services are streamlined and integrated with Fairfax County Adult Services (AS). Volunteers supplement AS in-home services by providing shopping, transportation, and other assistance. The small FAAA Residential Repair & Renovation program supplements Housing Department programs. This results in a blend of services for older adults to remain in their own homes and communities. Written comments may be submitted by Friday, May 8. Send comments to the Fairfax Area Commission on Aging, 12011 Government Center Pkwy., Suite 708, Fairfax, VA 20035, Attn: Mena Nakhla, or email mena.nakhla@fairfaxcounty. gov. 15 Come to a Memory Cafe Dr., Fairfax. It will meet the second and fourth Tuesday of each month. For more information, contact Carol Blackwell at [email protected] or call 571-236-6933. A memory cafe is a place for those with Alzheimer’s and other related dementias and their caregivers to find resources, support, and companionship. It is a community of caring individuals who come together twice a month for fun and activities. They celebrate birthdays and holidays and enjoy doing simple puzzles, playing games such as bean bag toss, bocce, bingo, and bowling with a plastic bowling set. Participants also go on picnics or meet for lunch or a movie. The first Memory Cafe meets the first and third Thursday of every month, 2-4 p.m., at Andrew Chapel United Methodist Church, 1301 Trap Rd., Vienna. A new Memory Cafe will have its grand opening on Tuesday, April 28, 1 p.m., at the Providence Community Center, 3001 Vaden ((' $ $$! $ $'"$ ! %%#$% $ ! ' $ !) ''# % % !#' !$ "& Case Managers On Duty 24/7 703-662-7500 www.fshhc.com Your whole-person direct care agency: • Hygiene, meals, companionship • Skilled Nursing • Advanced Wound Care • Physical & Occupational Therapy • Speech Therapy • Medication Performance Management FREE This month’s featured service… Commonwealth Coordinated Care is a new Virginia program that integrates care for individuals who are currently served by both Medicare and Medicaid. Try Personal Care For FREE! No obligation! FREE FREE 4-Hour Shift Coupon entitles you to receive a 4 hour shift of our standard daytime private pay personal care service at no cost or obligation. New personal care clients only. No client transportation allowed during free shift. State regulations require that our nurse conduct an inhome assessment prior to the start of service to qualify the client to safely receive home care services. Offer expires 12/31/2015. 16 Ask an Expert: Questions & Answers Provided by SeniorNavigator To ask an expert about your aging concerns, visit www.seniornavigator.org. or take a 30-minute much needed nap. Something this simple will refresh you. Topic: Caregiver Stress Question: I am caring for my husband who recently has become too ill to care for himself. This has me totally exhausted and at times overwhelmed. My children and grandchildren have planned a trip to visit us over the kids’ spring break from school. The visit will be nice, but this just means more work for me. It means cooking, cleaning, and running errands. There is no time for anything but work it seems. What advice do you have on reducing my stress levels so I can enjoy the time with my family? Call on your friends and relatives for help. Make a list of tasks you need help with and ask friends and relatives if they would contribute. Designate individuals to go shopping for groceries, clean the house, plan fun activities for the grandkids, make a few meals, etc. It’s OK to delegate! Pace yourself. Set limits. Learn to say “no.” Don’t overwork yourself to the point of exhaustion. For more information on caregiving resources and tips, call the Aging, Disability, and Caregiver Resources Intake Line at 703-324-7948. Answer: Being a caregiver for your husband and having family visiting will be stressful. When you are a caregiver, taking care of yourself and your needs is essential to being able to provide care over time. If you don’t take care of yourself, you can wear yourself down. Following are some tips to help you: I Buy Houses Take care of your health. Eat nutritious meals filled with energy boosting ingredients like fruits and veggies. Also foods such as oatmeal, hummus, salmon, kale, and peanut butter are all great energy boosters. ANY CONDITION in Fairfax County No Commissions ~ Save Time, Money & Worry Not An Agent ~ Female Owned Ph 703-969-5847 24hr 703-945-1941 www.ibuyfairfaxhouses.com [email protected] Exercise regularly. Drop out of your busy life for 10 minutes and take a walk down the street. Even a 10-minute walk can help you overcome feelings of fatigue. Seniors Independence, Comfort, Security, and Freedom at Home. 9 Housekeeping & Laundry 9 Daily Living Assistance 9 Meal Preparation 9 Shopping & Errands 9 Alzheimer’s Care 9 Outdoor Maintenance 9 Handyman Services 9 Transportation 9 Appointments A Brighter Day Home Care, Inc. www.abrighterdayhomecare.org Pamper yourself. Fit some time in for yourself. If you have the extra people there, use them to your advantage. Remember this is your “vacation” too, and do not be afraid to let family help out. Visit a nail salon or get a massage. Take a hot bubble bath Free Home Assessment (703) 502-9012 Bonded and Insured-Northern VA 17 April Gardening by Joe Belsan raises the top when the temp hits 80 degrees. I put a work light with a 100-watt bulb inside in case the nightly temps are forecast to go below 40 degrees. The cool crop seeds—spinach, kale, mustard, kohlrabi, and peas—are easier to get started. I soak them for a day or so, drain and wrap them in a moist paper towel, and put them in covered containers and refrigerate for 2-3 days until they just start to germinate. Some will go directly into the garden, others will go into seed flats for transplanting when the weather settles, and some will be for sale at the Oakton Farmers Market, which starts in mid to late April. We celebrated my birthday last month. The birthday honoree gets to choose the menu and I love my wife’s fried chicken. She uses the flour, egg, and bread crumbs method and it comes out nice and crispy. I use the same method for seafood except I substitute cornstarch for the flour to produce a crispier product, which is a trick I learned from a Chinese chef. My favorite presents were the recordings of music that are my favorites. I make a list of songs and the kids record them.They bring back great memories. All of a sudden, it’s time to scramble! I read about not being lulled into a state of false security just because we have snow all over the place and the temps are below freezing. Now we’re getting 60 degree temps, the snow is disappearing, and it’s time to garden and plant seeds. No time to make the garden pretty after cleaning up or making it look organized, but not to worry, there will be plenty of time for that. Soil temps are extremely important when planting. Cool weather crops can take temps as low as 40-45 degrees, but growth won’t take off until the soil gets to about 50-55 degrees. The warm weather crops—tomatoes, peppers, etc.—need a minimum of 65 degrees to safely promote growth. I use a soil thermometer to check the temp to a depth of 3” for shallow rooted plants—lettuce, kale, mustard—to a depth of 6-8” for the deep rooted plants—tomato, peppers, eggplant, and okra. The garden temps will depend on the amount and duration of sun it gets. Some of my previous articles have information on how to speed up the warming process. Until next month, happy gardening! I’m bringing in some compost and putting it into a metal pan, putting it in the oven at 190 degrees for about 1-2 hours depending on the amount. I’ll mix in 1/3 vermiculite and 1/3 perlite, fill the seed trays, and water them from the bottom. I’ll soak the tomato, eggplant, and pepper seeds for a day, which will gain about a week’s worth of germination. I put them into the oven with a 25-watt bulb covered with newspaper with a sign over the on/off switch. The tomatoes will germinate in about three days, the peppers in five days and the eggplant in about six days. Source: Joe Belsan is an organic gardener and a practicing foodscaper who helps plan and implement vegetable gardens. Contact him at [email protected]. I have a 2-bulb 48" fluorescent light in the basement with a base of books underneath making it easy to adjust the height of the tray to the lights as the seedlings grow. If the temps continue to rise, I’ll be able to move the seed trays to a cold frame that has a device that 18 Services of the Communications Policy & Regulation Division Have You Seen Similar Problems In Your Neighborhood? i Investigate cable TV-related reception and i i i i i i i i i i i signal problems. Handle consumers’ cable TV complaints. Work with cable providers to resolve service and regulatory issues. Review cable providers’ performance in meeting county and federal customer Loose Cable service standards. Inspect cable construction site locations. Enforce cable construction and safety codes and other related standards. Dispatch inspectors to construction locations with safety, property damage, or restoration issues. Improper Road Patch Provide owners with information regarding easement issues and cable construction on private property. Answer county residents’ questions about the availability of cable TV service. Track new cable, wireless, broadband, and Internet-based communications proposals and technologies. Support community access to local PEG (public, educational, and governmental) Inadequate Restoration television programming. Make presentations about cable issues to groups at HOAs, schools, senior and community centers. 703 - Leaning Pedestal Open Box Low-Hanging Cable If you see a problem, call or email us! 324 5902, TTY 711 wwwCPRD@fairfaxcounty. gov i Provide support for the I-Net, Fairfax County’s internal video, voice, and data communications to public facilities. Communications Policy and Regulation Division Department of Cable and Consumer Services i Enforce providers’ compliance with cable franchise agreements and codes. i Review county, state, and federal activities that could impact cable communications, wireless, broadband, and Internet services. i Analyze and comment on federal, state, and local cable legislation and regulatory proposals at the Federal Communications Commission. i Negotiate franchise agreements for the provision of cable service in the county. Questions? Get Answers. Staff are available to answer inquiries from residents about many technical cable - related matters, such as the migration of channels to other cable subscription tiers, the advantages and costs of digital vs. analog television, and use of an antenna to receive local stations. 19 Carolyn Capalbo Telephone Support Group for Caregivers of Older Adults Are you a caregiver who would like to join a support group without having to leave home? Get helpful information, share your experiences, and gain emotional support from others on the telephone. The support group meets on the second Tuesday of each month from 7-8 p.m. Below are the upcoming topics: AWARD-WINNING, TOP-PRODUCING AGENT Recognized by Real Trends magazine as one of 2013's Best Virginia Real Estate Agents Effective “As-Is” Marketing Expert Reasonable Repair Services Recommended Home Staging Options Vacant Property Services “My goal is to maximize your return with the least amount of stress on you!” April 14: Working With Care Professionals. How to Get the Help You Need. May 12: Caregiver Vacationing: How To Make It Work When You’re a Caregiver. [email protected] www.carolyncapalbo.com To register or for more information, go to www.fairfaxcounty.gov/dfs/olderadultservices/caregiver.htm, or call 703-324-5484 and leave your name and phone number. Free Hearing Tests set for Golden Gazette Readers Age 65+ Free electronic hearing tests are available to all Northern Virginia area residents age 65+ at select locations across Northern Virginia. Tests have been arranged for anyone who suspects they are losing their hearing. Such persons generally say they can hear but cannot understand words. Testing with the latest computerized equipment will indicate if you can be helped. Everyone, especially adults 65+, should have an electronic hearing test at least once a year. If there is a hearing problem, hearing tests may reveal that newly developed methods of correction will help, even for those who have been told in the past that a hearing aid would not help them. If you suspect you have a hearing loss, call for a free hearing test appointment. Our licensed specialists are trained in the latest auditory testing methods and will be the first ones to tell you if you don’t need a hearing aid. If you have a hearing loss, we will explain your results and provide you with a list of options. If you suspect you have even a minor hearing loss, don’t let it go untreated. Book your free hearing test today. Call 1-800-701-3573 to schedule an appointment. Burke/Springfield, VA 9312-D Old Keene Mill Rd. Suite 100 Falls Church, VA 5657 Columbia Pk. Suite 101 Manassas, VA 10565 Crestwood Dr. Fairfax, VA Sears Hearing Center by Beltone Fair Oaks Mall 12000 Fair Oaks Mall 20 Sterling, VA 46440 Benedict Dr. Suite 109 Leesburg, VA 19465 Deerfield Ave. Reduced-Cost Rabies Clinic ROOFING • SIDING • GUTTERS Repairs or Replacement Gutter Cleaning, Roof Certifications for Buyers and Sellers Reasonable Rates • Quick Response Call Birk Meadows A reduced-cost rabies clinic will be held on Sunday, April 12, 12-4 p.m., at the Fairfax County Animal Shelter, 4500 West Ox Rd., Fairfax. The cost is $12. • Dogs, cats, and ferrets are eligible for vaccinations. • Dogs must be on leashes. • Cats and ferrets must be in carriers. • All pets will receive a 1-year rabies vaccine. To obtain a 3-year vaccine, bring your pet’s rabies certificate showing your pet’s current rabies vaccination and expiration date. Only those who can show proof will be eligible for the 3-year vaccination for their pet. • Only rabies certificates will be issued (no tags). 703-876-4808 Meadows Roof Inspection ART/ANTIQUES INFORMATION RESOURCE, LLC • Written Appraisals • Downsizing/Estate Downsizing/Estate Consultations Francine Proulx, ASA, ISA AM 703-395-7015 [email protected] www.ArtAntiquesInfo.com TO ADD, CORRECT, OR DELETE YOUR NAME FROM THE GOLDEN GAZETTE MAILING LIST, CALL 703-324-5633. Remain Safe, Healthy, and Independent At HOME (703) 538-4584 We offer licensed, trained, compassionate, reliable caregivers We Can Assist With: Bathing · Incontinence Care · Laundry Recycling Event Meal Preparation · Light Housekeeping Errands · Shopping · Transportation · Document Shredding Saturday, April 25, 8 a.m.-Noon North County Human Services Center 1850 Cameron Glen Dr., Reston Medication Reminders www.rightathome.net/northern-virginia 21 Imagine having peace of mind. Trained, Reliable Affordable quality care. Meaningful activities. New friendships. Peace of mind. Caregivers in the Home Fairfax County Health Department [ We specialize in providing as much or as little care needed so our clients can continue to live independently in the comfort of their own homes. Customized care plans to meet your needs • 3 to 24 Hour Care • Dementia Care $ʏʅɸɢ'ʋɨ +HɪOʃɓ&ʋȾɏ 5 locations in Fairfax County Mon. – Fri., 7:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. Schedule a visit today. 703-750-3316 TTY 711 • Respite Care • Live-in Care • Backup Child Care • Care for All Ages ] Call our care team today! fairfaxcounty.gov/hd/ADHC 703-992-7420 A program of the Fairfax County Health Department. Call Now to Get 2 Weeks FREE! www.HomewatchCareGivers.com/Fairfax Do You Wear Hearing Aids? Would you like FREE hearing aid batteries FOR ONE YEAR? To receive your FREE premium hearing aid batteries, go to www.FreeHearingBatteries.com and enter in the Promo Code seen below: MENVA If you don't have internet access, simply send your name, address and battery size to: 3930 Walnut Street, Suite 240 Fairfax, VA 22030 22 000000 Free Hearing Batteries Transportation Programs SHEPHERD’S CENTERS Seniors On-The-Go! is Fairfax County’s discount taxi voucher program for adults who are 65 or older, residents of Fairfax County or the City of Fairfax, and have an annual income of $40k or less as an individual or $50k or less as a married couple. Participants are eligible for 16 $33 discounted coupon booklets per year at a cost of $20 each. To register, call 703877-5800. Fairfax-Burke What: Adventures in Learning Classes, including Gentle Yoga, World Issues, Health, and Book Club. When: Mondays, March 30-May 11, 8:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Where: Lord of Life Lutheran Church, 5114 Twinbrook Rd., Fairfax Cost: $30 for all sessions Information: Call 703-426-2824 or go to www.scfbva.org. TaxiAccess is Fairfax County’s discount taxi voucher program for individuals who are residents of Fairfax County or the City of Fairfax and registered users of MetroAccess. Participants are eligible for 8 $33 discounted coupon booklets per year at a cost of $10 each. To register, call 703-877-5800. For more information on transportation options for older adults, call the Aging, Disability and Caregiver Resources Line at 703-3247948. Oakton-Vienna What: Open House and Registration for Adventures in Learning. (Classes are Thursdays, April 23-June 18, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., and include Bridge, Tai Chi, a Health Series, and National and World Affairs). When: Thursday, April 16, 10 a.m.-Noon Where: Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Fairfax, 2709 Hunter Mill Rd., Oakton Cost: $40 for all sessions Information: Call 703-281-0538 or go to www.scov. org. Fairfax County Services for Older Adults • • • • • • • • • Adult Day Health Care Adult Protective Services Care Management/Social Work Caregiver Support and Respite In-Home Care Health Insurance Counseling Meals on Wheels Nursing Homes and Assisted Living Recreation, Transportation, and More! Annandale-Springfield What: Fundraiser Music Event: The NOVAAnnandale Symphony Orchestra. When: Friday, April 17, 8 p.m. Where: Ernst Cultural Center, Northern VA Community College, 8133 Little River Tnpk., Annandale Cost: $15 (free parking) Information: Call 703-941-1419. Information specialists can discuss these and other services for older adults, adults with disabilities, and caregivers in the Fairfax area. Call 703-324-7948, or go to www.fairfax county.gov/olderadults. The Golden Gazette is available in large-print format. Call 703-324-5633. Division of Adult and Aging Services Adult Protective Services Adult Services Fairfax Area Agency on Aging 23 Presorted Standard U.S. POSTAGE PAID MERRIFIELD, VA PERMIT NO. 1808 County of Fairfax, Virginia GOLDEN GAZETTE Department of Family Services FAIRFAX AREA AGENCY ON AGING 12011 Government Center Pkwy. Suite 708 Fairfax, VA 22035-1104 Please Deliver by April 1 COMMUNITY CALENDAR April 1. 7-8:30 p.m. Calling all potential and existing knitters and crocheters! Come join us to discuss, learn, and share knitting and crocheting ideas and projects. Free. George Mason Regional Library, 7001 Little River Tnpk., Annandale. Call 703-256-3800. April 11. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Free Health and Wellness Fair for adults 55+ and their caregivers. Features medical screenings, free exercise class demonstrations, and educational opportunities from over 30 local vendors to enhance the physical and mental well-being of older adults. Vienna Community Center, 120 Cherry St. SE, Vienna. Call 703-255-7801 or go to www.viennava.gov. April 13. 7-9 p.m. Cooking Techniques—Reducing Salt with Fresh Herbs for adults 55+. Lecture and demonstrations by Chef Robert McKeon. Free. Reston Community Center, Lake Anne, 1609 Washington Plaza N., Reston. To register, call Karen Brutsche at 703-476-4500or gotowww.reston communitycenter.com. April 15. 1-2:30 p.m. Container Gardening. Learn what flowers and herbs grow best in containers and how to arrange them. Plant a small container to take home. Call 703-4356530 for reservations by April 10. $10 RA/members, $14/nonmembers. Walker Nature Center, 11450 Glade Dr., Reston. April 18. 11 a.m. Earth Day Celebration. Learn about the changing environment, including composting and other green practices. End the celebration by recycling old household materials into fun new items. $5/county, $7/noncounty. Eleanor C. Lawrence Park, 5040 Walney Rd., Chantilly. Call 703-631-0013. April 23. 3-9 p.m. April 24. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. April 25. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. April 26. Noon-5 p.m. Used Book Sale. 75,000 books in 80 categories sponsored by 24 the Friends of the George Mason Regional Library, 7001 Little River Tnpk., Annandale. Call 703-256-3800. April 27. 2 p.m. Victimization of the Elderly and Senior Population. This presentation discusses issues concerning criminal victimization of older adults, the impact it has on their lives, and preventivestrategies.Tysons-Pimmit Regional Library, 7584 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church. Call 703-790-8088. April 30-May 28 (Thursdays). 10 a.m.–Noon. Class on Living Better with the Internet, taught by Marymount University faculty and students. Free. Falls Church Community Center, 223 Little Falls St., Falls Church. Call 703-248-5027 to register (class #260719).
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