GOLDEN GAZETTE
A Monthly Newspaper for Older Adults in the Fairfax Area
March 2015
Serving Older Adults for 38 Years
Feeling Dizzy or Lightheaded
Can Be Signs of
Balance Problems
VOL. 38, NO. 11
Medicare General
Enrollment Period
The part of the inner ear responsible for balance
is the vestibular system, often referred to as the
The Medicare General Enrollment Period allows a beneficiary who misses enrolling
in Medicare during either their Initial Enrollment Period or a Special Enrollment Period
to enroll during the annual General Enrollment Period. However, this delay often will
mean you will pay a late enrollment premium
penalty.
The General Enrollment Period lasts
from January 1 through March 31. Your
coverage begins the following July. However, your monthly premium increases 10% for
each 12-month period you were eligible for,
but did not enroll in, Medicare Part B.
Most beneficiaries will enroll in Medicare
Part A during the Initial Enrollment Period
since Part A is free if you have contributed
into the trust fund with ten years of covered
earnings. If you do not have ten years of
earnings, you pay for Part A.
Beneficiaries age 65 or older and covered under a group health plan, either from
their own or their spouse’s current employment, have a Special Enrollment Period in
Cont. p. 6
Cont. p. 4
Have you ever felt dizzy, lightheaded, or as if the
room was spinning around you? These can be very
troublesome sensations. If the feeling happens
often, it could be a sign of a balance problem.
Balance problems are among the most common
reasons that older adults seek help from a doctor.
In 2008, an estimated 14.8 percent of American
adults (33.4 million) had a balance or dizziness
problem during the past year.
Why Good Balance is Important
Having good balance means being able to control and maintain your body’s position, whether you
are moving or remaining still. An intact sense of
balance helps you:
•
•
•
•
Walk without staggering;
Get up from a chair without falling;
Climb stairs without tripping;
Bend over without falling.
In This Issue...
Free Tax Relief Workshops ........................ 3
Top Vehicle Technologies ........................... 5
Elder Law ....................................................... 7
Meals on Wheels ......................................... 15
Ask an Expert.............................................. 17
Community Calendar .................................. 24
1
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 March 1 for the
April 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.
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my name and address.
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_____ I am moving. My new address in the Fairfax area will be:
NAME____________________________________________________
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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.
March 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, March 18, at
Noon, at the Franconia Government Center, 6121
Franconia Rd., Alexandria. For more information, visit
www.fairfaxcounty.gov/dfs/olderadultservices/coa.htm. For
meeting access needs, call 703-324-5403.
2
Free Tax Relief Workshops
Franconia Governmental Center
6121 Franconia Road, Alexandria
703-971-6262
The Fairfax County Board of Supervisors is
hosting a series of free tax relief workshops
beginning February 28 and running through March
throughout the county. Real estate tax relief is
available for older adults and people with disabilities who meet certain qualifications. There also
are programs for car tax and rental grant relief.
Staff from the Fairfax County Department of
Tax Administration will be on site at the following
locations to assist with filling out the application
form and to answer questions. Appointments
are required unless otherwise stated.
For more information, go to www.fairfaxcounty.
gov/dta or call 703-222-8234.
Mason District
Hosted by Supervisor Penelope Gross
March 3 and 5, 9 a.m.-Noon
No appointment necessary.
Mason District Governmental Center
6507 Columbia Pike, Annandale
703-256-7717
Mount Vernon District
March 24, 10 a.m.-Noon
Hollin Hall Senior Center, Room 201
1500 Shenandoah Road, Alexandria
703-765-4573
AND
Lorton Senior Center
7722 Gunston Plaza, Lorton
March 24, 1:30-3:30 p.m.
703-550-7195
Braddock District
Hosted by Supervisor John Cook
March 6 and 17, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
No appointment necessary.
Braddock Hall Meeting Room (Kings Park
Library)
9002 Burke Lake Road, Burke
703-425-9300
Providence District
Hosted by Supervisor Linda Smyth
March 10 and 13, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Providence Community Center
Dranesville District
Hosted by Supervisor John Foust
March 11 and 20, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
McLean District Office
6649-A Old Dominion Drive, McLean
703-356-0551
Cont. p. 4
Hunter Mill District
Hosted by Supervisor Catherine Hudgins
February 28, 9 a.m.-Noon
No appointment necessary.
Frying Pan Farm Park Visitor Center
2709 West Ox Road, Herndon
703-478-0283
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
Lee District
Hosted by Supervisor Jeff McKay
March 12 and 19, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
No appointment necessary.
703-904-3994
GraceFulCare.com
3
Tax Relief cont. from p. 3
Medicare cont. from p. 1
3001 Vaden Drive, Fairfax
703-560-6946
which to sign up for Medicare Part B. This means
that you may delay enrolling in Part B without
having to wait for a General Enrollment Period or
paying the cumulative 10% premium surcharge
for late enrollment. Be aware that retiree health
plans and COBRA health coverage are not
considered as current employer group health
plans.
If you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period,
you can enroll in Medicare at any time while still
working or delay your enrollment for up to eight
months after you are no longer in that employment or in that group health plan. Most people
delay their enrollment in Part B because it is
usually a duplication of their group plan outpatient benefits. It does not make good financial
sense to make duplicate premium payments for
essentially the same health coverage.
If you miss the Initial Enrollment Period or
your Special Enrollment Period, you will be
forced to wait for the General Enrollment
Period. Remember, you not only experience a
delay in coverage, but you also will face a late
enrollment penalty of 10% for every twelve
months that you delayed your enrollment in
Medicare Part B.
Don’t delay another year. Call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 to get this resolved now.
Ask for an appointment, or go to your local
Social Security office, but you may have to wait
in line if you do not have an appointment.
For more information, call the Fairfax County
Virginia Insurance and Counseling Assistance
Program (VICAP) at 703-324-5851. If you live
outside of Fairfax County, call 1-800-552-3402
to locate your local VICAP office.
Springfield District
Hosted by Supervisor Pat Herrity
March 26, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
No appointment necessary.
West Springfield Governmental Center
6140 Rolling Road, Springfield
703-451-8873
ALWAYS BUYING OLD ITEMS
Estate? Downsizing?
Cleanouts? Collections?
Polite and professional
240-994-0941
Keith Krueger Antiques
Health Insurance Questions?
Call the Virginia
Insurance Counseling &
Assistance Program (VICAP) at
703-324-5851.
4
Top Vehicle Technologies for Safer Driving
By Julie E. Lee, Vice President and National Director of AARP Driver Safety and Education
When shopping for a new vehicle, there’s a
lot more to consider than four-wheel drive and
heated seats. With the variety of new tech
offerings available in today’s vehicles, now is a
good time to reference a recent study conducted by AARP Driver Safety’s partners at MIT Age
Lab and The Hartford. The study determined the
most helpful vehicle technologies for drivers 50
and older, and how well these technologies
meet the unique needs, concerns, and priorities
of experienced drivers.
So the next time you upgrade your vehicle,
consider this list of top vehicle technologies:
can help drivers maintain their flexibility. Although drivers shouldn’t solely depend on this
reverse monitoring system, along with rearview
mirror checks, it can help the driver better
assess the environment around his/her vehicle.
4. Blind spot warning systems: Blind spots
create challenges for all drivers, especially when
trying to change lanes on major highways or
park in a crowded lot. These systems help you
consistently monitor your blind spots without
taking your eyes off the road. However, you also
should take steps to limit your vehicle’s blind
spots. Make sure your rearview mirror is properly adjusted so that you can see your entire rear
window. You will know your left and right mirrors
are properly adjusted when you can barely see
the left and right back of your vehicle as you look
through the mirrors respectively.
1. Smart headlights: Finding a safe balance
between the intensity of your headlights and the
darkness of the night is a difficult task. However,
smart headlights can now help you adjust the
range and intensity of light based on the distance
of traffic. This reduces glare and improves night
vision.
5. Drowsy driving alerts: Did you know
drowsy driving can be just as dangerous as
driving under the influence of alcohol? According
to a poll by the National Sleep Foundation, nearly
60% of adult drivers admit to having fallen
asleep behind the wheel. Moreover, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports
that drowsy driving is responsible for over
100,000 crashes each year. For this reason,
drowsy driver alerts are premiering in new
vehicles to prevent drivers from falling asleep at
the wheel. This new technology monitors drivers’ inattentiveness, and alerts them when they
might be dozing off.
For the full list of top technologies and to
watch demonstrations of how they work, visit
AARP’s Driving Resource Center at http://
tinyurl.com/AARP-driving-resources.
We must remember the driver is still the most
critical part of the driving experience. While new
2. Emergency response systems: While
many drivers expect to use their cell phones to
contact emergency personnel, it might not be
the best option in every situation. Thankfully
many vehicles are now equipped with emergency response systems that offer quick assistance
to drivers in the case of a medical emergency or
collision, often allowing emergency personnel to
get to the scene more quickly. Some systems
even turn on interior lights, unlock doors, and
shut off fuel when airbags deploy.
3. Reverse monitoring systems: These
systems—often composed of rearview cameras and sound alerts—help a driver judge distances and back up safely. These tools are
especially helpful for drivers with reduced flexibility who may have trouble turning their bodies
around to see better. Additional research from
the Hartford and MIT Age Lab reveals that
exercises like chest and shoulder expansions
Cont. p. 12
5
Balance Problems cont. from p. 1
may be an inner ear infection, head injury, or
aging.
labyrinth. To maintain your body’s position, the
labyrinth interacts with other systems in the
body, such as the eyes, bones, and joints.
Good balance is important to help you get
around, stay independent, and carry out daily
activities.
Labyrinthitis
sss
This is an infection or inflammation of the
inner ear that causes dizziness and loss of
balance. It is often associated with an upper
respiratory infection such as the flu.
When People Have Problems with Balance
As they get older, many people experience
problems with their sense of balance. They feel
dizzy or unsteady, or as if they or their surroundings were in motion. Disturbances of the inner
ear are a common cause.
Vertigo, the feeling that you or the things
around you are spinning, also is a common
symptom.
Balance disorders are one reason older
people fall. Falls and fall-related injuries, such as
hip fracture, can have a serious impact on an
older person’s life. If you fall, it could limit your
activities or make it impossible to live independently. Many people often become more isolated after a fall.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, roughly more than one-third
of adults 65 years and older fall each year.
Among older adults, falls are the leading cause
of injury-related deaths.
Cont. p. 12
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BPPV (Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo)
There are many types of balance disorders.
One of the most common is benign paroxysmal
positional vertigo, or BPPV. In BPPV, you
experience a brief, intense feeling of vertigo
when you change the position of your head, such
as when rolling over to the left or right, upon
getting out of bed, or when looking for an object
on a high or low shelf. BPPV is more likely to
occur in adults age 60 and older, but also can
occur in younger people.
In BPPV, small calcium particles in the inner
ear become displaced and disrupt the inner ear
balance sensors causing dizziness. The reason
they become displaced is not known; the cause
Wills & Trusts
Special Needs Planning
Medicaid Planning
6
Guardianships
Probate
Social Security Disability
ELDER LAW
ESTATE PLANNING
PLANNING
ESTATE
ESTATE PLANNING
Common Estate Planning Mistakes
Baby Boomers Should Avoid
WILLS AND TRUSTS
WILLS AND TRUSTS
Trust and Probate Counsel
Special Needs Trusts
In Home Services • Elder Law Services
by Evan H. Farr, Certified Elder Law Attorney
Baby boomers are beginning to retire in
droves. When it comes to estate planning for
them (and everyone else), any number of
oversights can leave you vulnerable in the event
you become incapacitated. Other mistakes can
seriously compromise the amount your heirs will
inherit when you die. The following are some
common estate planning mistakes that baby
boomers should avoid:
David A. Fontanella, Attorney
703.317.1927
Thinking of Selling Your Home?
As a Seniors’ Real Estate Specialist, I can help with:
Selling “as is”
Referrals & bids for repairs
• Not Planning for Long-Term Care: Without proper long-term care planning, the expenses of long-term care are likely to significantly
deplete or even wipe out your savings and
investments before you die.
• Failing to Regularly Update Your Plan:
Things can change in life, such as your health,
marital status, financial situation, and the people
you trust. I recommend reviewing your estate
plan annually and making changes as soon as
they become necessary, or it could lead to
disastrous consequences.
• Avoid Online Do-It-Yourself (DIY) Wills:
Estate planning documents are not something
you should do yourself, just as you should not
perform surgery on yourself, due to the likelihood
of making serious legal mistakes. And, the people who would be left to deal with your mistakes
and oversights are the ones you’re probably
trying to protect.
• Never Prepare Legal Documents for Someone Else: If you’re not an attorney, preparing
or helping to prepare legal documents for another person is a crime called the “unauthorized
practice of law.” In Virginia, it’s a Class 1
misdemeanor and can subject you to jail time for
up to a year plus a fine of up to $2,500.
• Avoid Using Only a Will: When you use a
Last Will and Testament instead of a Living
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
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Always Best Care offers personal assistance
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HERNDON
FAIRFAX
(703) 463-9462
(703) 635-7587
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Cont. p. 8
7
Social Security Expands
Office Hours Nationwide
Elder Law cont. from p. 7
Trust, your financial affairs, and the financial
affairs of your beneficiaries, become known to
the public and will have to go through the
nightmare of probate.
• Make Sure to Have Proper Incapacity
Planning Documents in Place, Including a
Financial Power of Attorney and Advance
Medical Directive: Having a Financial Power
of Attorney avoids the “nightmare of living probate”—the time-consuming, expensive, and publicly embarrassing process whereby someone
has to go to court to have you declared mentally
or physically incompetent, and have a judge
appoint someone to serve as your legal guardian and conservator, a process that is subject to
ongoing court supervision and probate for the
remainder of your lifetime.
• Don’t Give Your Home to Your Children:
It is completely understandable to want to
transfer your home to your children to ensure
that they are provided for later and so that the
home remains in the family. Unfortunately, there
are many misconceptions that lead parents to
make the wrong moves, which may have disastrous consequences in the future, such as debts
of children, multiple children, future family discord, taxes, and Medicaid eligibility.
Everyone needs the peace of mind that
comes with making sure that their legal and
financial affairs are taken care of if they become
incapacitated; that decisions about health care
are carried out the way they’d like even if they’re
not able to make them; and that their loved ones
are taken care of when that time eventually
comes. Be sure to meet with an experienced
Elder Law attorney to plan for incapacity and
long-term care.
Social Security offices will be open to the
public for an additional hour on Mondays,
Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays, beginning
Monday, March 16, and office hours will be 9
a.m.-4 p.m.
Offices are closed to the public at noon
every Wednesday to complete current work and
reduce backlogs.
Many services such as applying for
retirement, disability, and Medicare benefits,
creating a Social Security account, replacing a
Medicare card, or reporting a change of address
or telephone number don’t require an office visit
and can be done anytime at www.socialsecurity.
gov. Also, a Social Security representative can
be contacted Monday-Friday, 7 a.m.-7 p.m., at
1-800-772-1213, TTY 1-800-325-0778.
For more information, go to www.socialsecurity.
gov.
Computer Coaching
NOTE: This article is not intended as legal
advice and should not be relied upon without
consulting legal counsel. If you would like to
suggest an elder law question for this column,
contact Evan Farr at 703-691-1888 or
[email protected].
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
Know The 10 Signs of
Alzheimer’s Disease
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Memory loss that disrupts daily life may be a
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Alzheimer’s is a brain disease that causes a slow
decline in memory, thinking, and reasoning skills.
There are 10 warning signs and symptoms of
the disease. Individuals may experience one or
more of these signs in different degrees. If you
notice any of them, see a doctor. Early detection of Alzheimer’s disease gives you a chance
to begin drug therapy, enroll in clinical studies,
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1. Memory loss that disrupts daily life
One of the most common signs of Alzheimer’s is memory loss, especially forgetting
recently learned information. Others include forgetting important dates or events; asking for the
same information over and over; increasingly
needing to rely on memory aids (e.g., reminder
notes or electronic devices) or family members
for things they used to handle on their own.
2. Challenges in planning or solving problems
Some people may experience changes in
their ability to develop and follow a plan or work
with numbers. They may have trouble following
a familiar recipe or keeping track of monthly bills.
3. Difficulty completing familiar tasks at
home, at work, or at leisure
People with Alzheimer’s often find it hard to
complete daily tasks. Sometimes, people may
have trouble driving to a familiar location, managing a budget at work, or remembering the
rules of a favorite game.
4. Confusion with time or place
People with Alzheimer’s can lose track of
dates, seasons, and the passage of time. They
may have trouble understanding something if it is
not happening immediately. Sometimes they
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Cont. p. 21
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Balance Problems cont. from p. 6
Important Information for
Older Adults and People
With Disabilities Who
Qualify for Tax Relief
Ménière’s Disease
Ménière’s disease affects adults of any age
and the cause is unknown. It is a balance
disorder that causes a person to experience:
• Vertigo;
• Hearing loss that comes and goes;
• Tinnitus, which is a ringing or roaring in the
ears;
• A feeling of fullness in the ear.
The 2015 Notice of Real Estate Assessment
Change that was mailed to you in February is
not a tax bill. If you are an older adult or a
person with disabilities who qualifies for tax
relief, please note that the 2015 tax estimate
shown on the notice does not reflect your 2015
tax relief benefit.
The filing deadline for your tax relief application is April 1, 2015.You will be notified about
your tax relief status by June 30, 2015. The
notice also may reflect any tax relief exemptions
received in tax years 2013 and 2014.
For more information about tax relief or your
real estate assessment, contact the Department of Tax Administration (DTA) at 703-2228234, TTY 703-222-7594, Monday through
Friday, 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Information on tax
relief and real estate tax assessments can be
found at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/dta.
There are many ways to treat balance disorders. Treatments vary depending on the cause.
See your doctor if you are experiencing dizziness, vertigo, or other problems with your balance.
For more information, call 1-888-346-3656 or go
to http://nihseniorhealth.gov/balanceproblems/
aboutbalanceproblems/01.html.
Source: NIH Senior Health
Safer Driving cont. from p. 5
systems are intended to help reduce human
error and make the driving experience easier
and more enjoyable, it’s critical that, as drivers,
we refresh our knowledge and skills.
An AARP Smart Driver™ course can help
you stay current with changes to technology and
the driving experience. To find a course in your
community, go to www.aarp.org/safedriving or
call 1-877-846-3299.
The Golden Gazette is
available in large-print
format. Call 703-324-5633.
12
Watch Your Back! Scam for
Free Back Brace
SHEPHERD’S CENTERS
In the last few weeks, the Virginia Senior
Medicare Patrol (SMP) has gotten numerous
phone calls from residents reporting they received phone calls and robocalls from durable
medical equipment (DME) companies who supposedly work with Medicaid or Medicare. The
unsolicited calls offer a free Medicare-approved
back brace and mention that their own doctor
recommended this product to treat their back
pain.
To receive the free equipment, older adults
are asked to provide their Social Security number or Medicare number. Unfortunately, by providing this information, scammers can begin to
fraudulently bill their Medicare accounts and
open the door to identity theft.
These con artists are persistent, aggressive, and their stories are convincing. They call
many times and at all hours of the day to wear
down potential victims. Many of the calls are
coming from spoofed phone numbers and are
difficult to trace.
Tips to consider:
• Medicare and Medicaid will not call you and
ask for your personal information.
•
Do not give your personal information over
the phone to an unsolicited caller. Immediately
hang up the phone if you receive a suspicious
phone call.
•
Do not do business with telephone salespeople who offer free medical services or medical equipment.
• Examine all medical bills and summary statements to verify that they match your own records.
This will help you confirm that you are not being
billed for a service not received or double billed.
If you suspect fraud, contact the Virginia
SMP at 1-800-938-8885.
What: Fashion Show and Luncheon with Raffles
and Door Prizes.
When: Thursday, March 19, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Where: Church of the Good Shepherd, 9350
Braddock Rd., Burke
Cost: $25
Reservations: Call 703-620-0161 by March 12.
Fairfax-Burke
Annandale-Springfield
What: Lunch N’ Life Featuring Photographer
Joan Mendez.
When: Thursday, March 26, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.
Where: Sleepy Hollow United Methodist Church,
3435 Sleepy Hollow Rd., Falls Church.
Register: Call703-941-1419 or emailshepherdscas
@vacoxmail.com by March 24.
Attorneys and Counselors at Law
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FROM THE GOLDEN GAZETTE MAILING LIST,
CALL 703-324-5633.
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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.
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:
• Certified arthritis exercise instructor and
knitting/crocheting group leader, in McLean;
• Square dance and Tai Chi instructors, in
McLean;
• Bilingual Spanish/English activity leaders
between 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Tuesdays through
Fridays, and Canasta leader (flexible) in
Annandale;
• Pilates and ballroom dance instructors, in
Annandale;
• Current events discussion group leader, in
Annandale;
• Facility attendants weekdays, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.,
to check-in participants on a computer, answer
phones, set up (sometimes lead) activities,
(McLean) and do data entry (Falls Church);
• Certified personal trainer 1 hour, 2x/week,
in Centreville;
• Trained art instructor to teach painting in
any variety of mediums, 1x/week, in Annandale;
• Ballroom dance instructor, 1x/week, in
Alexandria;
• Mosaic art instructor or jewelry maker to
teach class, 1 hour, 1x/week, in Alexandria;
• Teachers for beginning Spanish and
beginning Italian, 1 hour, 1x/week or less, in
Alexandria;
• Chair exercise instructor, Mondays, 1-1:45
p.m., and Tuesdays, 11:15 a.m.-Noon, in
Annandale.
Opportunities at Adult Day Health Care Centers:
• Front desk volunteers, weekdays, 9:15-9:45
a.m., in Alexandria;
• Social companions, Mondays, 3-5 p.m., in
Alexandria;
• Pianist/singer to lead sing-alongs/play piano,
1-2x/month, 2-2:45 p.m., in Alexandria;
• Lunch assistant/card players, 11 a.m.-1:30
p.m., to set up tables, cut up food, serve 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 Shepherd’s Center of Fairfax-Burke
seeks volunteer drivers to help older adults living
in central Fairfax and Burke with transportation to
their doctor appointments and with their shopping
needs. Call703-426-2824 or email [email protected].
The Alzheimer’s Association needs volunteers to serve on the walk planning committee.
The committee meets once a month for 1 hour in
the Fairfax office. Volunteers will help with community
awareness and outreach activities. Call 703-359-4440
or go to http://act.alz.org/2015novawalk.
The Jewish Council for the Aging’s Senior
Tech program needs volunteer instructors for
computer classes for older adults in Crystal City,
Tysons Corner, and Pentagon City. Classes
introduce, refresh, and advance computer skills,
including how to use social media. Courses
offered are: Beginners and Intermediate Excel,
iPad/iPhone, photos, videos, and more. Contact
[email protected] or call 1-240-3950916.
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
What You Need to Know About Meals on Wheels
Beth Ann Margetta, licensed clinical social
worker and a supervisor with the county’s Meals
on Wheels Program, recently spoke with Jim
Person, host of Fairfax 50+ Podcast.
The following is an excerpt of the interview.
You can tune in to the entire podcast at
www.fairfaxcounty.gov/dfs/olderadultservices/
podcasts/.
Who’s eligible?
Adults in Fairfax County, Fairfax City, and the
City of Falls Church who are 60 or over or over
18 with a disability. Our client also must be
considered homebound and this means they are
unable to drive and shop for themselves and
have no caregiver in the home to help prepare
meals.
Everyone has heard about Meals on Wheels.
It seems to be a household name, but what
does Meals on Wheels actually do?
Meals on Wheels provides home-delivered
meals to older adults who are considered “homebound” and who cannot shop for themselves or
who have difficulty preparing meals. This program is so valuable because it can often prevent
people from having to move to an assisted living
or nursing facility.
Give me an example of someone who receives Meals on Wheels now. Why do they
need Meals on Wheels and how does it help
them?
“Dorothy” is a typical client. She recently
returned home after being hospitalized for a
stroke. Dorothy is in her mid-70s and, like so
many of our clients, lives alone. She returned
from the hospital with right-sided weakness and
partial paralysis that made it impossible to pre-
Can you tell us about the history of Meals on
Wheels?
The first Meals on Wheels program actually
began during World War II in Great Britain. After
the German bombing campaign known as the
Blitz, a group called the Women’s Volunteer
Service for Civil Defense organized meal delivery to people who had lost their homes or who
were in need of assistance.
The first Meals on Wheels program began in
the U.S. in Philadelphia in 1954. A social worker
named Margaret Toy, of Philadelphia’s Lighthouse Community Center, developed a program
for homebound adults. Most of the volunteers
were high school students who were nicknamed
“platter angels.” They would prepare and deliver the food to the elderly in Philadelphia. The
program was formally established after the
Older Americans Act was signed by President
Lyndon Johnson in 1965.
Cont. p. 19
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How many people receive Meals on Wheels
in Fairfax County?
Our numbers fluctuate, but we are serving
more than 500 people right now.
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GrandInvolve: Change the World One Child at a Time
Would you like to have a unique and interesting volunteer experience while making a difference in a school, a classroom, a family, or in the
life of one child?
The Positive Aging Coalition, in partnership
with Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS), is
recruiting Grandparents and Boomers as volunteers who would like to become mentors, readers, math helpers, and classroom assistants.
The program is designed to require little work for
the teacher and no experience from the volunteer.
As the African proverb says, “It takes a
village to raise a child.” If you are interested in
making a difference in the success of our local
schools , join the GrandInvolve team!
If you would like to have an interesting and
rewarding volunteering experience with flexible
hours and varying responsibilities, contact Sara
Crummett at [email protected] or call
703-923-5400. Volunteer applications are currently being accepted for Crestwood Elementary School in Springfield, where a pilot program is
running this year. We need YOU to make a
difference!
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16
Ask an Expert: Questions & Answers
Provided by SeniorNavigator
To ask an expert about your aging concerns, visit www.seniornavigator.org.
Topic: Tax Return for a Deceased Family Member
Topic: Yoga
Question: I am a 62-year-old woman and
have decided to live a healthier lifestyle. As part
of living healthier, I am going to begin an
exercise program. Several friends have told
me about yoga for seniors and I am wondering
if this might be a good choice for me.
Question: My mother passed away in November 2014. Am I required to file tax returns for
her?
Answer: A tax return for the final year of the life
of the deceased is required and a tax return for
the estate of the deceased may be required
depending upon the particular situation. These
tax returns should be done by the person who is
executor of the deceased’s will. If you are the
executor, you should file her taxes.
Whether or not any taxes are due and the
amount, is a question for which you need specific
tax advice from a professional tax adviser such
as a Certified Public Accountant.
Answer: You are to be commended for your
efforts and for exploring different forms of
exercise. Yoga will help you to maintain or
improve flexibility, balance, and overall wellness. There are limits as to what our bodies
can do as we age; however, yoga can be a
milder form of exercise.
It is always best to consult your physician
prior to starting any new exercise program.
Doctors can offer advice as to whether a
particular form of exercise is appropriate for
you.
Most yoga workouts can be adapted to
each person’s needs and abilities, and can be
safe for older adults. You may begin by trying
a basic/beginner yoga class, but be aware of
your body and its limits. Speak to the instructor
regarding any conditions you may have.
If you experience pain or feel tired, discuss
this with your instructor. There are props available that the instructor may use to help enable
you to do poses correctly.
It may be helpful to you to keep track of your
physical activity. Visit the Aging Well: Healthy
Choices Solution Center to access online tools
for tracking several health behaviors, including physical activity. You can access the Solution Center at
www.healthychoicessolutioncenter.org.
The Jewish Council for the Aging is offering
computer classes for adults 50+ in Crystal City,
Tysons Corner, and Pentagon City. Courses
offered include beginner and intermediate Excel,
iPad/iPhone, and photos and videos. If interested in classes or to volunteer to teach/coach a
class, email [email protected] or call 1240-395-0916.
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March Gardening
by Joe Belsan
Well so far so good—Mother Nature has
been kind, but that rascally rodent, Punxsutawney Phil, says not so fast hasty gardener! Okay,
but hopefully not for long.
As you are reading this Golden Gazette, it is
the cusp of the start of planting season for cool
weather crops. There are gardeners out there
that would have you believe that seeds could
have been put in the ground in mid to late
February. I have never tried that mainly because
my garden isn’t ready for planting, and if the
weather is still cool, 40-50 degrees, who wants
to be working in mud?
It is true that there are many seeds that
should be planted in cool soil like spinach, kale,
mustard, and kohlrabi. I prefer sitting in a nice
warm kitchen soaking those seeds for a day or
two, wrapping them in a damp paper towel, and
putting them in a covered container for three to
five days in the fridge. They most likely will
germinate to the point where I can just throw
them in the ground. It takes the guesswork out
of planting and with good germination, ensures
a good crop. If the seeds are old and don’t
germinate, I can get replacements without too
much of a problem.
plant a crop of extra veggies that can be donated
to a local food kitchen or charity. My wife got us
involved with Food for Others. I say “us” because she puts together packages of food for
school children that are distributed to be consumed on the weekend, and I deliver them to the
Food for Others warehouse. Many local supermarkets and food services contribute foods
from breads to veggies for distribution to needy
families who are prequalified based on income,
etc. My wife did a very in-depth review of the
organization, and they are one of the top charities based on their lower administrative expenses.
My church has a food kitchen group that
meets once a month and prepares meals for
homeless families in the City of Fairfax. I always
check with them first to see what types of
veggies can be used for these meals. There are
many laws that govern the types of donations
that can be made to these types of charities.
Until next month, happy gardening!
Source: Joe Belsan is an organic gardener and
a practicing foodscaper who helps plan and
implement vegetable gardens. Contact him at
[email protected].
The seeds I ordered in early February are
either new varieties, ones I’ve never tried, or
replacements for those that don’t store that well
like eggplant, peppers, corn, and okra. The
storage limits for these, even under the best of
conditions, is 2-3 years. I don’t plant as much as
I used to since the garden is only feeding two
mouths now, not six.
I share the leftover seedlings that don’t sell at
the Oakton Farmer’s Market with my neighbors
and my church to grow veggies for our food
kitchen. I try not to waste them.
This year I’m beginning a “Plant a Row for the
Hungry.” When I heard about this effort, it
sounded like a great idea. If you have the room,
and either a ground garden or spare containers,
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Meals on Wheels cont. from p. 15
Play Ball!—Bat It, Serve It,
or Hit It
pare her own meals or drive. Meals on Wheels
combined with family support on the weekends
means she can stay in her home and delay or
avoid placement in a long-term care facility.
Senior Softball
Join Northern Virginia Senior Softball for fun,
fitness, and friendship. Play 2 slow-pitch 7
inning games Tuesday and Thursday mornings,
April 7-August 6. The average age of players is
66+. Placement on one of 26 teams in one of 3
ability-level leagues is by ability assessment,
NOT a tryout. Everyone present bats and 11
play defense.
To get the ball rolling, go to www.nvss.org or
call Dave at 703-524-5576.
Tell us about the food. How much do you get
and does it taste good?
It tastes good! I can say so because I’ve
tried it. Most of our clients receive meals on
Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays for a total
of 10 meals. Our vendors provide nutritious and
flavorful menus. In some parts of the county, we
offer culturally familiar meals through our Korean and Vietnamese Meals on Wheels programs.
What happens when you have a snow day ?
Do people go hungry?
We do our best to ensure clients don’t go
hungry, even on snow days. Before the onset of
winter, we deliver clients several shelf-stable
meals.
Tennis Anyone?
Are you 50 or older and interested in playing
tennis at a competitive and comparable level?
By joining the Golden Racquets, you will receive
a rating based on your level of play and then play
doubles with others who have reached that level.
If you are a player or have not played for some
time, this is your chance to get in the game. The
Golden Racquets players have fun year-round
playing in outdoor and indoor venues during the
day.
For more information and an application
form, go to www.GoldenRacquets.org or call
Ellen Johnson at 703-425-6578.
How many volunteers are there in Fairfax
County and who are they? What kind of
people are they?
We rely on scores of volunteers to keep
Meals on Wheels running. They are staffed
through the county’s Volunteer Solutions, which
finds extremely dedicated and caring individuals
interested in giving back to older adults in our
community.
How do you apply for Meals on Wheels?
Anyone interested can call 703-324-5409.
An intake worker will ask questions to establish
eligibility. If eligible, a county social worker will
schedule a home visit for an assessment.
Senior Golf League
Interested golfers are invited to join the
Burke Lake Seniors Golf League for those 55
and older who enjoy playing golf, meeting new
people, and having an all-around good time.
There are reserved tee times on Tuesday and
Thursday mornings at the Par 3 Burke Lake Golf
Course on Ox Road. Annual dues for the
season—April 1 through October 31—are $20
plus green fees at a reduced rate.
For more information, call Charlie Ryan at
703-690-4227.
Recycling Event
Document Shredding
Saturday, March 21, 8 a.m.-Noon
Mason District Governmental Center
6507 Columbia Pike, Annandale
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:
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To register or for more information, go to
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10 Signs of Alzheimer’s cont. from p. 10
anxious. They may be easily upset at home, at
work, with friends, or in places where they are
out of their comfort zone.
may forget where they are or how they got
there.
5. Trouble understanding visual images
and spatial relationships
For some people, having vision problems is
a sign of Alzheimer’s. They may have difficulty
reading, judging distance, and determining color or contrast, which may cause problems with
driving.
6. New problems with words in speaking or
writing
People with Alzheimer’s may have trouble
following or joining a conversation. They may
stop in the middle of a conversation and have no
idea how to continue or they may repeat themselves. They may struggle with vocabulary,
have problems finding the right word, or call
things by the wrong name.
7. Misplacing things and losing the ability
to retrace steps
A person with Alzheimer’s disease may put
things in unusual places. They may lose things
and be unable to go back over their steps to find
them again. Sometimes, they may accuse others of stealing. This may occur more frequently
over time.
8. Decreased or poor judgment
People with Alzheimer’s may experience
changes in judgment or decision making. For
example, they may use poor judgment when
dealing with money, giving large amounts to
telemarketers. They may pay less attention to
grooming or keeping themselves clean.
9. Withdrawal from work or social activities
They may start to remove themselves from
hobbies, social activities, work projects, or
sports. They may have trouble keeping up with
a favorite sports team or remembering how to
complete a favorite hobby.
10. Changes in mood and personality
The mood and personalities of people with
Alzheimer’s can change. They can become
confused, suspicious, depressed, fearful, or
What to do if you notice these signs
If you notice any of the 10 Warning Signs of
Alzheimer’s in yourself or someone you know,
don’t ignore them. Schedule an appointment with
your doctor.
With early detection, you can:
• Get the maximum benefit from available
treatments: You can explore treatments that
may provide some relief of symptoms and help
you maintain a level of independence longer. You
also may increase your chances of participating
in clinical drug trials that help advance research.
• Have more time to plan for the future: A
diagnosis of Alzheimer’s allows you to take part
Cont. p. 23
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21
Imagine having peace of mind.
Trained,
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Aﬀordable quality care.
Meaningful activities.
New friendships.
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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
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Customized care plans
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• 3 to 24 Hour Care
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5 locations in Fairfax County
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Schedule a visit today.
703-750-3316 TTY 711
• Respite Care
• Live-in Care
• Backup Child Care
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]
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!
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If you or a loved one has been experiencing difficulty hearing, please visit our office for a FREE Hearing Evaluation**. Act now,
as our appointments are limited and they fill up quickly. Call our office today to reserve your appointment! You’ll be one step closer
to changing your life for the better! Miracle-Ear will offer you our newest, most advanced technology to help you reconnect with the
world again. The coupon below offers you significant savings on the most advanced Hearing Aids on the market today!
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3930 Walnut Street, Suite 240
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6190A Old Franconia Road
Fairfax, VA
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Sterling / Ashburn, VA
Alexandria/Springﬁeld, VA
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10 Signs of Alzheimer’s cont. from p. 21
Transportation Programs
in decisions about care, transportation, living
options, financial and legal matters. You also can
participate in building the right care team and
social support network.
When you see your doctor
Your doctor will evaluate your overall health
and identify any conditions that could affect how
well your mind is working. Your doctor may refer
you to a specialist such as a:
•
Neurologist —specializes in diseases of the
brain and nervous system;
•
Psychiatrist—specializes in disorders that
affect mood or the way the mind works;
•
Psychologist—has special training in testing memory and other mental functions;
•
Geriatrician—specializes in the care of older adults and Alzheimer’s disease.
For more information, go to www.alz.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!
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.
Division of Adult and Aging Services
Adult Protective Services
Adult Services
Fairfax Area Agency on Aging
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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.
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.
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 March 1
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
March 9. 10-11a.m. Food
Safety for Seniors.Learn how
to clean, separate, cook, and
chill food safely. Some giveaway items will be provided.
Vienna Community Center, 120
Cherry St., SE, Vienna. Call
703-255-7801.
March 11. 9:30 a.m.-Noon.
AARP sponsored workshop:
Modifying Your Home to Fit
Your Changing Life Style. Get
advice, tips, and checklists on
modifying your home for comfort, safety, and long-term livability. Learn how to fund your
modification. Westminster
Presbyterian Church, 2701
Cameron Mills Rd., Alexandria.
Call 1-877-926-8300 to register. For more information, go to
http://states.aarp.org/march11/.
March 12. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Caregiver Boot Camp! Join the Insight
Memory Care Center for presentations from field experts in financial planning, medical issues, legal
needs, and caregiver support. $25
(includes lunch). Insight Memory
Care Center, 3953 Pender Dr.,
Suite 100, Fairfax. Call 703-2044664 to RSVP.
March 18. 9:30–11 a.m. The Alexandria/Mount Vernon Antiques
Club features author and awardwinning journalist, Michael Lee
Pope, who will talk about his latest
book, “Wicked Northern Virginia.”
Hollin Hall Senior Center, 1500
ShenandoahRd., Alexandria.Call
703-765-4573.
March 19. 1-9 p.m.
March 20. 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
March 21. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Burke Centre Friends Used Book
Sale. Burke Centre Library, 5935
Freds Oak Rd., Burke. Call 703249-1520.
March 23. Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) sessions
start—register now. Stimulating
and diverse intellectual, social,
and cultural experiences, including over 100 daytime courses with no homework, exams,
or grades. Sample OLLI with
two free class visits. 4210
Roberts Rd., Fairfax. Call 703503-3384, email [email protected],
or go to www.olli.gmu.edu/.
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March 26. 7-8:30 p.m. Downton Abbey Lecture. Hear about
the grim realities of life for domestic servants and the true nature of
their relationships with their employers. Green Spring Gardens,
4603 Green Spring Rd., Alexandria. $15/person. Register at
www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/
greenspring with code 29020301
02 or call 703-642-5173.
March 28. 2-3 p.m. Keep Moving and Living Well. Learn exercise considerations for those
who have suffered a heart attack or stroke. Discussion lead
by licensed medical exercise
specialist. John Marshall Library, 6209 Rose Hill Dr., Alexandria. Call 202-802-7530 for
information/reservations.