Aging Gracefully 2024 by InsideNoVa

Wednesday, May 1

8-11 a.m.

Potomac Mills Mall

Free and open to the public

A showcase of services, products and resources that assist in planning for the future.

All About ‘Aging Gracefully’

The “Aging Gracefully” Expo will be held in person on Wednesday, May 1, at Potomac Mills Mall.

The event is free and open to the whole community. Businesses and organizations from throughout the region will be showcasing the services, products and resources they offer that assist in planning for the future.

PARTNERS

PRINCE WILLIAM CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Whether you have aging parents or an aging spouse, the information and resources provided at the Aging Gracefully Expo are extremely valuable for caregivers and future caregivers alike. The

Prince William Chamber is proud and honored to provide this essential resource to our community each year.

MAIN SPONSOR:

PRINCE WILLIAM AREA AGENCY ON AGING

The Prince William Area Agency on Aging is excited to bring this community favorite event back in 2024. Our focus remains on making older adults, persons with disabilities and their caregivers aware of the many resources that are available to them in the community. Being a caregiver can be stressful. At the Agency on Aging, we want to ensure our community knows that resources are available to support them.

>>See other sponsors and a complete list of exhibitors on Page 3

VISION PARTNER: SENTARA NORTHERN VIRGINIA MEDICAL CENTER

Sentara Northern Virginia Medical Center is delighted to partner with the Prince William Chamber, the Area Agency on Aging and Potomac Mills Mall for this valuable event.

The “Aging Gracefully” Expo brings together a wealth of resources, information, programs and services of interest to older adults and their caregivers.

NOTE: Recommended parking for this event is in the Cheesecake Factory parking lot. Additionally, the AARP-sponsored shred truck will be located in the Cheesecake Factory lot.

PRINCE WILLIAM

Welcome to ‘Aging Gracefully’

Iam honored to invite you to the 2024 “Aging Gracefully” Expo on Wednesday, May 1, from 8-11 a.m. This event is designed to present seniors and their caregivers with the valuable resources they need to support them in all their needs.

We are pleased to present a variety of exhibitors, from community partners to Prince William Chamber of Commerce

member businesses from many areas of need. The community is encouraged to attend to connect with the many resources available – ranging from eye care to handyman services – among the multitude of vendors joining us.

Supporting the aging population in the Prince William County region and beyond is essential to our community. The Chamber is

New Model Homes Now Open

committed to supporting the needs of our aging population by presenting the 2024 “Aging Gracefully” Expo at the Potomac Mills Mall and will continue to grow our outreach to support the seniors and senior-supportive businesses into the future.

Sincerely, Bob Sweeney President and CEO Prince William Chamber of Commerce

Spacious Villa and Single-Family Homes in a Vibrant 55+ Community

FROM THE $500 ’s

• Villa Homes with 2-4 Bedrooms and up to 2,500+ Sq. Ft.

Come

Located near Gainesville, The Crest at Linton Hall combines serene living with convenient access to everything you need.

The lifestyle you’ve been looking for is waiting for you at The Crest at Linton Hall. Scan the QR code to learn more!

• Single-Family Homes with 3-5 Bedrooms and up to 4,300+ Sq. Ft.

• Main-Level Primary Suites

• myCommand Smart Home Technology • Pickle Ball & Bocce Courts, Horseshoes, Trails, Community Garden, Outdoor Kitchen, and Gathering Space with Gas Firepit

Bob Sweeney

The “Aging Gracefully” event will be in the food court area of Potomac Mills Mall (in center of mall layout above). Recommended parking is near the Cheesecake Factory, where a shredding truck will be located, sponsored by AARP.

Potomac Place Assisted Living (see ad, Page 7) Dominion Eye

Sentara Northern Virginia Medical Center

OTHER EXHIBITORS

Able Moving & Storage Inc.

ACCLAIM at Belmont Bay

Ace Handyman Services Tri-County NOVA

Alzheimer’s Association – National Capital Area Chapter

Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield

Assisted Living Locators – Fredericksburg & Surrounding Areas

Belmont Bay Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center

Birmingham Green

BrightStar Care of Leesburg/Gainesville, Winchester, Woodbridge, Springfield

Comfort Keepers of Greater Prince William

Freedom Property Management and Sales

Home Helpers Home Care of Gainesville

Legacy Ridge

OmniRide (see ad, Page 5)

Planning for Senior Life

Prince William Public Libraries

SCC Bureau of Insurance

Sentara Home Care Services

Stonewall Memory Gardens

UVA Health Prince William Medical Center

Retirement is a journey, not a destination

When you envisioned your golden years, you likely dreamt of living your best life - days filled doing exactly what you want to do, with little worry of what you have to do. In order for your vision to become a reality, it requires you to plan ahead.

Whether it’s for yourself or a loved one, we invite you to attend one of our educational events and learn why it’s best not to wait for life to happen to you. Start making the most of your golden years today.

HEALTH & FITNESS

VIAGRA and CIALIS USERS! 50 Generic Pills SPECIAL

$99.00. 100% guaranteed. 24/7 CALL NOW! 888-445-5928

Hablamos Español

Dental insurance from Physicians Mutual Insurance Company. Coverage for 400+ procedures. Real dental insurance - not just a discount plan. Get your free Information Kit with details! 1-855-526-1060 www.dental50plus.com/ ads #6258

Attention oxygen therapy users! Discover oxygen therapy that moves with you with Inogen Portable Oxygen Concentrators. Free information kit. 1-866-477-9045

HOME SERVICES

Aging Roof? New Homeowner? Got Storm Damage? You need a local expert provider that proudly stands behind their work. Fast, free estimate. Financing available. Call 1-888-878-9091

Water damage cleanup: A small amount of water can cause major damage to your home. Our trusted professionals dry out wet areas & repair to protect your family & your home value! Call 24/7: 1-888-872-2809. Have zip code!

Professional lawn service: Fertilization, weed control, seeding, aeration & mosquito control. Call now for a free quote. Ask about our first application special! 1-833-606-6777

MISCELLANEOUS

Prepare for power outages today with a Generac Home Standby Generator. Act now to re-ceive a FREE 5-Year warranty with qualifying purchase* Call 1-855-948-6176 today to sched-ule a free quote. It’s not just a generator. It’s a power move.

Eliminate gutter cleaning forever! LeafFilter, the most advanced debris-blocking gutter protec-tion. Schedule free LeafFilter estimate today. 20% off Entire Purchase. 10% Senior & Military Discounts. Call 1-833-610-1936

Bath & shower updates in as little as 1 day! Affordable prices - No payments for 18 months! Lifetime warranty & professional installs. Senior & military discounts available. 1-877-543-9189Change In Ad Copy - Wording & Phone #!

Donate Your Car to Veterans Today! Help and Support our Veterans. Fast - FREE pick up. 100% tax deductible. Call 1-800-245-0398

Reader

Become a published author. We want to read your book! Dorrance Publishing trusted since 1920. Consultation, production, promotion & distribution. Call for free author’s guide 1-877-729-4998 or visit dorranceinfo.com/ads

Get DISH Satellite TV + Internet! Free Install, Free HD-DVR Upgrade, 80,000 On-Demand Movies, Plus Limited Time Up To $600 In Gift Cards. Call Today! 1-866-479-1516

Safe Step. North America’s #1 Walk-in tub. Comprehensive lifetime warranty. Top-of-the-line installation and service. Now featuring our free shower package & $1600 off - limited time! Fi-nancing available. 1-855-417-1306

Wesley Financial Group, LLC Timeshare Cancellation ExpertsOver $50,000,000 in timeshare debt & fees cancelled in 2019. Get free info package & learn how to get rid of your timeshare! Free consultations. Over 450 positive reviews. 833-308-1971

DIRECTV Stream - Carries the most local MLB Games!

Choice Package $89.99/mo for 12 mos Stream on 20 devices at once. HBO Max included for 3 mos (w/Choice Package or higher.) No contract or hidden fees! Some restrictions apply. Call IVS 1-866-859-0405

Diagnosed with lung cancer & 65+? You may qualify for a substantial cash award. No obliga-tion! We’ve recovered millions. Let us help! Call 24/7 1-877-707-5707

Replace your roof w/the best looking & longest lasting material steel from Erie Metal Roofs! 3 styles & multiple colors available. Guaranteed to last a lifetime! Limited Time Offer up to 50% off install + Additional 10% off install (military, health & 1st responders.) 1-833-370-1234

Jacuzzi Bath Remodel can install a new, custom bath or shower in as little as one day. For a limited time, waving all installation costs! (Additional terms apply. Subject to change and vary by dealer. Offer ends 6/30/24.) 1-844501-3208

Don’t let the stairs limit your mobility! Discover the ideal solution for anyone who struggles on the stairs, is concerned about a fall or wants to regain access to their entire home. Call Ameri-Glide today! 1-833-399-3595

Home break-ins take less than 60 seconds. Don’t wait! Protect your family, your home, your assets now for as little as 70¢/day! 1-844-591-7951

MobileHelp America’s premier mobile medical alert system. Whether you’re home or away. For safety & peace of mind. No long term contracts! Free brochure! Call 1-888-489-3936

f you or someone you know may have bladder cancer, being well informed could get you the best diagnosis and treatment.

In fact, according to an article in “Urologic Oncology,” in 46.5% of the cases where a bladder was removed because of advanced cancer, a very serious type of tumor called carcinoma in situ (CIS) had been missed in past transurethral resection of bladder tumor (TURBT) procedures. This alarming statistic magnifies the need for urologists to have enhanced tumor visibility during these procedures. One procedure can offer visibility of hard-to-see tumors, including CIS – it’s called blue light cystoscopy (BLC). Here’s what to know:

light TURBT.

So how can patients ensure better diagnostics and treatment? Experts say that asking for BLC during the first TURBT is a great way to advocate for yourself or a loved one. BLC is a technology that allows urologists to see tumors that white light alone may miss. Unfortunately, it is not always used at the first encounter with the patient.

TURBT can be a critical diagnostic step when done properly and precisely. The TURBT provides essential information regarding the number of tumors, tumor sizes, locations and depth of invasion. All these factors significantly inform the identification of a patient’s risk category, which can subsequently impact treatment decisions.

Currently, white light cystoscopy is most commonly used for a patient’s first TURBT and is considered the standard level of care. However, research suggests that white light cystoscopy alone may be inadequate, causing:

• Incomplete tumor resection: After one year, there is a rate of up to 61% of non-muscle invasive bladder cancer recurrence, suggesting incomplete tumor resection when using only white light cystoscopy.

Dr. Suzanne B. Merrill of Colorado Urology said, “By using blue light cystoscopy for first TURBT, urologists can more completely assess the bladder, achieve greater tumor eradication and provide more data for appropriate diagnosis. Doing the procedure with enhanced visibility right at the start of patient care can better establish the appropriate treatment regimen for each patient and lower the risk of disease recurrence.”

Dr. Merrill recommends that patients and their loved ones be their own advocates when it comes to their diagnosis.

Need some tips for how to talk to your urologist about TURBT and BLC? Follow these steps:

1. Find a trusted urologist in your area.

2. Inquire about BLC with your urologist.

3. Explain to your urologist that you’re interested in BLC at your first TURBT to ensure better tumor visibility.

4. If your urologist does not offer BLC, find one that does.

To find locations that offer BLC, visit rebrand.ly/BLC-Locations.

• New tumor growth: Up to 70% of patients have tumors recur after standard TURBT.

• Tumors found during subsequent TURBT procedures: Up to 86% of residual tumors are found at the original resection site after initial white-

“When it comes to your medical care, you should always feel comfortable advocating for yourself,” says Dr. Merrill. “You may need to speak to more than one urologist, but doing so can mean better outcomes for your health in the long term.”

– StatePoint

It’s Tax Time: 3 Ways the Pros Can Help You Save

As you file your taxes, you may be wondering how a successful tax plan can help you reach your financial goals, whether you’re filing taxes for the first time as a young professional or approaching retirement.

During tax time, put this aspect of your financial plan on the front burner by working with a certified financial planner. Here are three ways a CFP can help you make the most of tax deductions, tax credits and tax-advantaged accounts.

1. AVOID SURPRISES

A tax refund may feel like a boon, but it means that you gave the government an interest-free loan. However, you don’t necessarily want to swing too far in the other direction and end up with an unmanageable tax bill.

A CFP professional can help you adjust your tax estimates or withholdings so you are more likely to break even next yearend. And if you do end up with a refund, they can help you redirect the money in a way that’s beneficial to your overall financial plan.

2. PLAN FOR THE FUTURE

The maximum employee deferrals to defined contribution plans such as 401(k) s and 403(b)s have risen considerably. A CFP can help you determine how much you can comfortably contribute each month to shelter more of your wealth from taxes.

This move has an additional benefit if you’re close to the edge of a higher tax bracket – by trimming taxable income, you can fall into a lower bracket and save. And, of course, by boosting deferrals, you will be setting yourself up for a more comfortable retirement.

3. BECOME A STRATEGIC GIVER

As you file your taxes each year, you may have noticed that there’s a high bar for claiming deductions for charitable donations. In fact, for 2023, that standard deduction is $13,850 for single filers and $27,700 for married couples filing together. To make more of your charitable dollars, a CFP can help you establish a donor-advised fund. This allows you to “bunch” your donations and qualify for deductions immediately.

This tax-advantageous method of giving is good for you, and good for your end recipients, as it allows your contributions to potentially grow while you decide which charities to support.

Certified financial planners know the latest tax code changes that average investors often do not. To find a CFP, visit LetsMakeAPlan.org.

Taxes can be one of the most complicated aspects of financial planning. With the help of a financial advisor, you can avoid surprises, save more of your hardearned money and be well-positioned to reach your goals. – StatePoint

• OmniRide Express buses travel along the I-95 and I-66 corridors to destinations in Northern Virginia and downtown D.C. Discounted fares for those 60+ or persons with a disability.

• OmniRide Local serves routes in Dale City, Dumfries, Woodbridge (including along Route 1), Lake Ridge, and the Manassas area. ZERO-FARE through June 30!

Express • OmniRide Local OmniRide East-West Express

Metro Express OmniRide Ridesharing OmniRide Access • OmniRide Connect

A certified financial planner can be very helpful at tax time.

| ISTOCK VIA GETTY IMAGES PLUS

9 Ways to Support Mental Wellness

When it comes to overall wellness, focusing on mental health is critical, especially for older adults, according to experts.

“As people age, they may experience stressors such as serious illness, losing close friends and family members, managing life on a fixed income and coping with concerns about their own mortality,” said Dr. Lindsay Evans-Mitchell, board certified adult psychiatrist and behavioral health medical director for Cigna Healthcare’s Medicare Advantage business.

EX PLORE

• Books and magazines (print and digital).

• Programs for all ages.

• Free access to computers and Wi-Fi.

• Digital Library, 24/7 access to info, entertainment, and more.

• U.S. Passport services at select branches.

Find us on Social Media

youtube.com/princewilliampubliclibraries pwcva.gov/library your local

facebook.com/princewilliampubliclibraries instagram.com/pwpls pinterest.com/pwpls x.com/princewmlibrary

“While seniors may show resilience to these dimensions of vitality, when they’re compounded, these losses and stressors can result in a myriad of behavioral health issues, including depression, anxiety, stress and insomnia,” Evans-Mitchell added.

Dementia, which includes memory loss and language difficulties, is another issue often more pronounced with age, and, in earlier stages, it can often mimic some symptoms of depression.

Fortunately, Evans-Mitchell says making healthy choices can improve your quality of life, including your overall mental well-being, and potentially reduce your risk of both depression and dementia.

Practice good nutrition: There is evidence that plant-based diets are associated with better health, including better emotional health. That’s another reason to add more green, leafy vegetables to your diet.

Exercise: Regular exercise can positively affect cognitive ability. If you have a Medicare Advantage plan offering access to a fitness program at no extra cost, then take advantage of it.

Hydrate: Drink plenty of water. Dehydration can negatively affect cognitive performance. Even mild dehydration can drain energy and cause fatigue.

Enjoy some sunshine: Sunlight provides needed vitamin D. Getting sunshine may increase your serotonin and help you stave off depression caused by Seasonal Affective Disorder. Also, according to the Alzheimer’s Association, exposure to

vitamin D can lower dementia risk by as much as 40%. Of course, make sure to take proper precautions, such as wearing a hat, using sunscreen and wearing eye protection that shields against UV light.

Get plenty of rest: Older adults need seven to nine hours of sleep each night, according to the National Institutes of Health. People who get six hours of sleep or less a night are at greater risk of developing dementia later, the organization says. Additionally, poor sleep could be a sign of depression and should be discussed with your doctor.

Stay away from harmful substances: Dealing with behavioral health issues in unhealthy ways, such as abusing prescription or illicit drugs or alcohol, will only worsen the situation. According to the National Institutes for Health, research shows heavy alcohol use can increase the risk of both dementia and depression.

Pick up a hobby: Hobbies like gardening, cooking and solving puzzles can help improve your memory and your physical and mental health.

Be social: Isolation can lead to depression, which only worsened for many during the COVID-19 pandemic. Reach out to friends and family in person, via video chat or over the telephone.

Find help if you need it: Keep your regular medical appointments, and don’t hesitate to seek additional help from your network, if you need it. This may take the form of a financial advisor, a clergy member or a mental health professional. Medicare generally covers the cost of behavioral health services, including depression and addiction treatment, as well as talk therapy. Virtual services are often available to those living in rural areas. And if you’re experiencing a crisis that includes suicidal thoughts, call 988 immediately.

“For some older adults, seeking help can be difficult,” Evans-Mitchell said. “But getting help is a sign of strength, not weakness. There’s no benefit to suffering in silence when help to improve your life is within reach.”

– StatePoint

Exercising and spending time with friends are two ways to improve your mental health.

SABRINA BRACHER | ISTOCK VIA GETTY IMAGES PLUS

Preserve Your Natural Teeth With These Tips

May is Save Your Tooth Month, an annual celebration of tooth-saving procedures and the endodontists responsible for saving teeth.

It’s also an important reminder that while having a tooth pulled may seem like the easiest option when you have tooth pain from an infection or disease, saving your natural teeth is best.

According to the American Association of Endodontists, a missing tooth can affect your quality of life and self-confidence, cause other teeth to shift, affect your ability to chew properly, and lead to more problems down the road – and a lot more cost. Tooth extraction is often more painful than the infection itself, and replacing an extracted tooth with an artificial one requires additional dental visits that can quickly add up.

“Modern endodontics offers advancements in technologies, procedures and materials, giving you many treatment options to save your natural teeth,” said Dr. Natasha M. Flake, president of the association. “It’s important to understand your choices and how they’ll impact both your tooth and your future dental health.”

Unfortunately, there are a lot of misconceptions about what to do when you are experiencing tooth pain or infection. That’s why the AAE offers these teeth-saving tips:

1. While the phrase “I’d rather have a root canal” may be meant as a joke, it’s actually good advice. When given a choice between tooth extraction

and root canal treatment, always opt for a root canal. Not only is root canal treatment from an endodontist virtually painless, no denture, bridge or implant will look, feel and function as well as a natural tooth. In short, the beginning of a root canal procedure means the end of tooth pain.

2. Act immediately when you experience symptoms of swelling or pain. Most endodontists can accommodate emergency cases, even on weekends, ensuring you’ll be seen quickly.

3. If your dentist recommends tooth extraction, ask whether having a root canal is an option.

4. If you’re told a root canal is not an option, ask why and request a referral to an endodontist, or use the AAE’s Find My Endodontist search tool at findmyendodontist.com to find a practice near you. Endodontists are specialists in saving teeth. They can evaluate your condition and provide the best treatment plan to help you save your teeth for a lifetime.

“In a disposable era, some things are worth preserving,” Flake said. “It’s always best to retain your natural teeth whenever possible and endodontic treatment – which helps you maintain your natural smile [and] continue eating the foods you love and limits the need for ongoing dental work – should be your first choice for the best health and cosmetic results.”

– StatePoint

Senior Resources

OMNIRIDE

Spring has sprung! The better weather means we can start taking advantage of all our area has to offer – a trip into D.C., local shopping, lunch with friends or catching up on health appointments. Whether you no longer drive or just don’t want to deal with the congestion, OmniRide can get you wherever you want to go on our fare-free Local or Metro Express buses. Learn more at OmniRide. com or book a presentation about OmniRide services by calling our outreach specialist at (703) 580-6127.