SENIORS Fairfax County Times
JANUARY 2016
Have the Time of Your Life in the Prime of Your Life
GOLFING TIPS
Streamline your swings and quiet your legs
Financial Planning: It’s never too late to build a smart plan International Travel: The key to a successful trip Foster Grandparenting: Making connections with teens
Bob and Rachel did it...
Thanks�to�fate's�intervention. R
achel and Bob both grew up on remote farms in southwest Oklahoma's Kiowa County. They met in the 4th grade and were classmates throughout high school. After graduating (in a class of only 65), they went their separate ways, attended college, married, raised children, and moved around the country with their families.
I
n the late 1980’s, a classmate discovered that four of them were living in the Washington DC area, so they all reconnected. Over the next few years, only Bob and Rachel remained. Rachel had been a Navy widow since the early 1980’s and at the beginning of 2009, Bob's wife passed away. Though Rachel lived in DC, and Bob had moved an hour away, they continued to get together regularly.
B
y the end of 2010, the two had become a couple and began making plans to move to Shenandoah Valley WestminsterCanterbury (SVWC), a CARF-accredited, active retirement community in Winchester, VA. It was the financial security of Lifecare, and the relaxed, friendly feel of the Winchester area, which made their decision easy.
S
ince the move, they have met new friends and love their comfortable, roomy apartment. They continue to travel on their motorcycle, play tennis, participate in Rotary, and enjoy a dynamic lifestyle. Fate brought them back together but research and great instincts brought them to SVWC.
To arrange a tour or attend a Lunch & Learn event, please call 540.665.5914 or email VisitUs@svwc.org
www.svwc.org | 540.665.5914 | 800.492.9463 300 Westminster-Canterbury Drive, Winchester, VA 22603 2 Fairfax County Times SENIORS | January 2016
FairfaxTimes.com
SENIORS Fairfax County Times
Editor
Gregg MacDonald
Page Designer
Meredith Hancock
Contributing Writers
Gregg MacDonald Angela Woolsey
CEO
Rich Whippen
Advertising Director
Marta Wallace
Marketing Manager
Melissa Turqman
PUBLISHED BY THE FAIRFAX COUNTY TIMES/WHIP IT MEDIA 1920 ASSOCIATION DRIVE, SUITE 500, RESTON, VA 20191
Fairfax County Times Seniors is produced by Whip It Media's Sections, Advertising and Creative Services departments. It does not involve the company’s newsrooms. ON THE COVER: STOCKBYTE/THINKSTOCK
Do you know someone in Fairfax County who is 50 or older with an interesting story to tell? Do you know of an organization that provides entertainment, travel or arts opportunities for older adults? We want to know about it! Email us at gmacdonald@fairfaxtimes.com.
COMING SOON!
Waltonwood Ashburn Independent Living, Assisted Living and Memory Care Waltonwood communities offer residents the opportunity to try new things. From nightly chef specials to new resident socials and fitness classes, activities and amenities are available to help you have a great day, every day. We invite you to learn more about Waltonwood Ashburn. N O W AC C E P T I N G P R I O R I T Y R E S E RVA T I O N S
Call and schedule a personal presentation today
(571) 933-8088
A SHBURN
4 4141 Russell Br anch P k w y., Ashb ur n, VA 2 0147 The Information Center is located on Russell Branch Pkwy., near the intersection of Ashburn Village Blvd. and Russell Branch Pkwy. Just look for our white and green Waltonwood Bus!
www.facebook.com/waltonwoodseniorliving
www.Waltonwood.com FairfaxTimes.com
January 2016 | Fairfax County Times SENIORS
3
FINANCES
BOOST YOUR INCOME
© FOTOLIA
4 Fairfax County Times SENIORS | January 2016
FairfaxTimes.com
T
here are many aspects of retirement to look forward to: the travel, the free time and fewer responsibilities, to name a few. But generally speaking, there is also less money coming in.
© ANDREYPOPOV / 123RF STOCK PHOTO
That leaves many seniors to carefully plan their spending to avoid falling short on the monthly amount they need for groceries, medication and entertainment. If savings, pensions and Social Security aren’t enough for you to live comfortably, you have many options to set yourself up for a brighter financial future. One idea is to consider delaying your retirement until you stow away a nice nest egg or put more into your high-growth savings plan. Check with your local Social Security office to see what your payment structure will look like if you wait a few years to draw it. Below are some other tips for boosting your income during your golden years.
GO BACK TO WORK PART-TIME If you’re like many newly retired Americans, it may feel strange waking up with no employment responsibilities. Once you settle into a routine of relaxation, you might still feel the pull to become involved with something that keeps you busy throughout the day. Part-time employment can help you offset extra expenses and give you the satisfaction of contributing to the workforce. You may find that organizations are looking for someone just like you, especially if you’re looking to apply FairfaxTimes.com
your background and career expertise to help them achieve their goals. Check in with your local career advisory firm to see what is available in your area. Be ready to describe what your ideal role looks like and how many hours per week you would like to work.
HOME EQUITY If you own your home, you may be sitting on an excellent source of extra income. A home equity loan, line of credit or a reverse mortgage are all options to consider that can give you a lump sum of money with a fixed repayment schedule, depending on the option you choose. These types of financial tools are there to help you free up extra money for your savings or home improvement projects. Before signing the dotted line on any of the above options, check in with Federal Trade Commission or meet with a government-approved organization to make sure you’re entering a legitimate agreement. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development approves the official booklet, titled “Use Your Home to Stay at Home.” The guide can navigate you through all the options.
Sp Op rin eni g ng 20 16
FINANCES
A new concept in senior living.
NO EXPENSIVE BUY-INS | SPACIOUS RENTAL APARTMENTS FARM-TO-TABLE RESTAURANT-STYLE CUISINE
Join us for an Open House and discover why living at The Crossings can be wonderful. Enjoy great amenities and plenty of opportunities to do what you love to do. And with the full continnum of care, give the gifts of security and peace of mind to yourself and your family. To learn more, call (703) 994-4561.
thecrossingsatchantilly.com Please see our website, thecrossingsatchantilly.com, for open houses and events.
AT CHANTILLY
Independent Living, Assisted Living, & Memory Care
13921 Park Center Drive | Suite 355 | Herndon, Virginia 20171 (703) 994-4561 | thecrossingsatchantilly.com A Harmony Senior Services Community
January 2016 | Fairfax County Times SENIORS
5
RENOVATE
RENOVATING FOR THE FUTURE 1/22/2016
remsberg_10102516858.jpg
ARLEIGH BURKE PAVILION AT VINSON HALL UNDERGOING NATURAL SPACE UPDATES BY TIMES STAFF
When Arleigh Burke Pavilion assisted living and skilled nursing care facility opened in McLean in 1991, pine wood and floral wallpaper were at the height of trendiness. Nearly 25 years later, that same wallpaper is being ripped down and replaced by a cleaner, less-cluttered color palette. The renovation of Arleigh Burke Pavilion at Vinson Hall Retirement Community began in late July 2015. February marks the halfway point of the $4.3 million refurbishment of McLean’s premier skilled nursing care residences. The massive renovation project includes the redesign of the top floor includes updating all 37 suites, bathrooms, community lobbies and meeting spaces, activity center, and the addition of two country kitchen. The first phase of the
project included revamping suites to be designed specifically for skilled nursing care residents. Arleigh Burke Pavilion’s renovation comes in the wake of $56 million, two building expansion which added 268,000 square feet to Vinson Hall Retirement Community. Now connected by indoor bridges to Vinson Hall Retirement Community’s independent living apartment buildings and the new Community Building, flow was a key aspect of the redesign of Arleigh Burke Pavilion. The focal point of the new design was to create natural spaces for friends and family to gather. As a skilled nursing care residence, Arleigh Burke Pavilion has a constant stream of visitors. “In our remodel, we wanted to move again from an institutional look to a place residents can call home,” says CEO and Executive Director of Vinson Hall Re-
tirement Community Kathy Martin. “We hope at our new living rooms with fireplaces and the addition of country kitchens will create a warm and inviting feel.” As the first phases of the renovation became open to residents and family members, the staff began to notice a change in the residents’ moral. “Our residents are
SUBMITTED PHOTO
already enjoying the living rooms. Having a home-like space is creating a community atmosphere amongst our residents,” said Hawa Lamin-Sidique, director of nursing at Arleigh Burke Pavilion. “We feel proud of our new facility, and it shows.” The renovation is expected to be complete in July, 2016.
Ashby Ponds and Greenspring takes the worry out of WINTER. Retire from the ice, snow, and stress at Virginia’s premier senior living communities. Here, you’ll enjoy year-round amenities like an indoor pool, medical center, and multiple
https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/#sent/152666d63dd4e416?projector=1
1/1
restaurants. Without the hassle or high cost of home maintenance, winter may become your favorite season. Call 1-800-481-1157 for your FREE brochure.
11250093
6 Fairfax County Times SENIORS | January 2016
FairfaxTimes.com
FINANCES
SMART FINANCIAL PLANNING
I
t’s never too late to build a strong financial plan. Even if you’ve already got a good handle on your financial future, you may find the need to refine their plan as life events and medical issues arise. By working closely with a certified financial planner, you can establish a strong working relationship that is focused on protecting and growing your assets during your retirement age. This means more money on hand for you and a healthier amount of assets for your family members.
COMMON MISTAKES One of the most fundamental mistakes senior citizens can make in regards to money is not having a comprehensive plan. Urgent needs and unforeseen events can throw anyone for a financial loop if there isn’t a strong plan in place. Working closely with a financial advisor or trusted family member to establish and carry out your plan can make the difference between saving enough money and running short on funds later in life. Make sure while building your plan that you prioritize your expenses and get educated on what a strong plan is supposed to look like. Consider all options at your disposal, and remember to research any changes to your portfolio or stock plan before you follow through with them. THE TOUGH QUESTIONS
Before it’s possible to make a customized, solid financial plan, you have to ask FairfaxTimes.com
© FOTOLIA
yourself some tough questions. They include: • What do I want to do and spend in retirement? • Where do I want to live, and who do I want to spend time with? • Will I continue working part-time or will outside income stop? • How do I see myself supporting family members in the future? • What kinds of healthcare options do I want for myself down the road? Go over your answers with your financial advisor or family member to help drive the creation of your financial plan.
Family Owned, Family Operated, Family Focused. Since 1957
GET ORGANIZED
By the time you retire, you may have numerous retirement accounts, savings plans and mutual funds. It is important to know where these accounts are held and how to get them into one consolidated portfolio. A financial advisor can help you do this to make sure your investment plan is coordinated. Doing so also can help you stay more on top of market changes that can impact the amount of money in your reserves. This can also make it easier for you to track your savings and make any adjustments as you go along.
For pre-planning information please call or visit us Fairfax Memorial Park Traditional and cremation burial services (703) 323-5202 9900 Braddock Rd., Fairfax, VA 22032 www.fmpark.com
Fairfax Memorial Funeral Home & Crematory Funeral and cremation services (703) 425-9702 9902 Braddock Rd., Fairfax, VA 22032 www.fmfh.com
January 2016 | Fairfax County Times SENIORS
7
LIVING
BE A HEALTHY ROLE MODEL
© FOTOLIA
Keeping it Simple Moving from a home you’ve loved for 30, 40 or 50 years can be quite emotional, and sometimes challenging. That’s why it’s important to ask for help. The Organizing Mentors offers a compassionate and gentle team to help seniors relocate. We’ll help you sort through, organize and pack items, then take away unneeded ones and provide you the tax receipts. Why take on the stress by yourself? Trust us to be by your side.
Call or email us today!
703-434-9585
The
lisa@theorganizingmentors.com www.theorganizingmentors.com 8 Fairfax County Times SENIORS | January 2016
Organizing Mentors Keeping It Simple
V
ibrant, health-focused seniors can be strong role models to the young people in their lives.
Teaching life lessons and giving advice can go a long way in strengthening your relationships with grandchildren, students and the kids in the neighborhood. But nothing is more important than the eating, drinking and exercise decisions you make in front of the youth around you. Making healthy decisions is not difficult, especially when you consider how much influence your actions have on the people looking up to you. With a little planning and some common sense, you can make sure your dietary choices give you the essential vitamins and minerals needed to fuel your body in a healthy way. For physical activity, a little effort goes a long way in showing youth how remaining active can reap positive benefits. Staying committed to these healthy choices can help keep those around you in great shape, too.
SAVE THE SNACKS You know the stereotype. At grandma and grandpa’s house, vegetables are out and candy
is in. “Spoil them and send them home!,” the old saying goes. But if you’re looking to make a positive effect on the eating habits of your grandchildren, that adage isn’t going to work. Saving desserts and candy for special occasions will help youngsters understand your expectations. Offer plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables — and do so in a fun way. Place carrots, celery and raisins in the form of a funny face on the plate or encourage your grandchildren to make shapes of their own. Anything to make them associate positivity and fun with healthy eating is a plus.
JOIN IN WITH GAMES When it comes to physical activity, you can set a positive example by involving yourself with your grandchildren’s games and sports. Offer to play catch in the backyard or learn a new sport. You can be a great role model while also getting in a cardio workout. The benefits of regular physical activity are both immediate and long lasting. Make an impact on the children around you by showing them how exercise makes you feel better, healthier and ready to take on the day. FairfaxTimes.com
RECREATION
TIPS FOR SENIOR GOLFERS
H
itting from the senior tees may not automatically bring more birdies and lower scores.
If you’re used to playing from a certain distance on your hometown course, moving to the closer tee box may throw off your strategy. Golfers over 50 struggle with a lot of the same issues that golfers under 50 do, most notably consistency. Golf is a game of precision and accuracy. More than any other sport, it also is a test of your mental fortitude and concentration. Striking your ball the same way on every swing is a great place to start. This takes many swings over the course of your practice sessions to really hone in on your strengths. Using the correct mechanics on driving, long irons, chipping and putting takes time, but once you start streamlining your swing, you’ll be knocking strokes off your score in no time. Lower Body The pro at your local golf course will use the phrase “Quiet your legs.” That means that regardless of how strong the rest of your swing is, your legs can have a negative effect if you move them too much. Keep control over your legs by focusing
on the lower half of your body during your swing. Zone in to how your legs move and watch how they guide your ball. Always bend your knees slightly before and during a swing, and keep them shoulder width apart. If you’re looking for a little extra power in your swing, rotate the toes of your back foot 45 degrees and dig in during your backswing. This can add a few extra yards without compromising your accuracy. Head and Spine Movement If you’re dealing with any loss of flexibility or range of motion, this can play a major role in weakening your golf swing. Always remember to stretch as much as possible — for at least 20 minutes — before starting your round of golf. This can help loosen up your muscles and improve your performance. Bad posture can have a similar impact on your game. Keep your body in a consistent position while you swing your club. Try to keep your swing as rotational as possible instead of lifting up or twisting your body. These bad swing habits can lead to errant shots.
Innovative Memory Care... By Design... Great Falls has been thoughtfully designed with the needs of your loved one in mind. Our residents experience secured freedom as well as a heart-healthy diet, walking paths and patios, and Life Enrichment programs—including art, music, and dance—seven days a week.
Call for more information.
703-421-0690
1121 Reston Ave. | Herndon, VA | GreatFallsAssistedLiving.com
FairfaxTimes.com
January 2016 | Fairfax County Times SENIORS
9
FITNESS
GREY HAIR AND BLACK BELTS GO TOGETHER WELL KARATE FOR SENIORS NOW BEING TAUGHT IN NORTHERN VIRGINIA BY TIMES STAFF
Roger Webb, who earned a 2nd degree black belt at age 75, teaches a fellow senior how to defend herself.
You’re never too old for self-defense. “Karate for Seniors” is a class that is now active at Ashby Ponds retirement community in Ashburn. The group, which includes seven students and a resident instructor, practices for one hour every week at the community. These “karate kids” mean business; they’ve already earned gold tips on their belts, indicating progress with the art of karate. The “Karate for Seniors” instructor is no amateur; Ashby Ponds resident Roger Webb earned a 2nd degree black belt at age 75. His first foray into karate did not begin until age 68, when he began taking classes at Lee District RECenter in the Franconia area of Fairfax County. Four short years later at age 72, Webb earned his 1st degree black belt. “Karate is a wonderful way to combine fitness, balance, and memory skills,” said Webb. Webb initiated the “Karate for Seniors” group at
Ashby Ponds hoping to both share his appreciation of the art as well as offer others the opportunity to learn the skills associated with karate. He affiliated with his former Master from Brown’s Karate and was able to provide patches from the school for the students’ uniforms at the community. Webb’s interest in athletics began at a young age and has stayed with him through the years. As a college student, he was a member of the Florida State University gymnastics team from 1955-1959. He then went on to coach the University of Virginia Gymnastics Club after college from 1959-1965. Now 78, Webb also competes in various track & field competitions including the 3000-meter and 5000-meter race walk. In the fall of 2015, he participated in the Northern Virginia Senior Olympics, earning medals in race walking, shot put, discus, and Yo-Yo! He also competed in the Potomac Valley Track Club’s onehour race walk; he has twice earned age-group gold medals in the event, which is an annual international competition.
PHOTO COURTESY JESSICA MCKAY
10 Fairfax County Times SENIORS | January 2016
FairfaxTimes.com
FairfaxTimes.com
January 2016 | Fairfax County Times SENIORS
11
GIVING BACK
BECOME FOSTER GRANDPARENTS
D
© FOTOLIA
o you have a passion for working with disadvantaged youth? Are you soft-hearted enough to make emotional connections with troubled teens but firm enough to give honest, straightforward life advice?
Through one national organization’s effort, you can turn these strengths into a powerful volunteering opportunity that could shape young minds and lives forever.
WHAT IS THE FOSTER GRANDPARENT PROGRAM? The Foster Grandparent Program is a volunteer program funded by The Corporation for National and Community Service. Volunteers like you, ages 55 and older, are role models, mentors and friends to children with exceptional needs.
According to the CNCS, foster grandparents serve from 15 to 40 hours per week in locations including schools, hospitals, juvenile correctional institutions, daycare facilities or Head Start centers. If you choose to volunteer your time, you will receive pre-service orientation and training, as well as supplemental accident and liability insurance. Some volunteers who meet certain income guidelines also receive a small stipend.
WHAT WILL YOU DO?
The majority of foster grandparents are
12 Fairfax County Times SENIORS | January 2016
placed in school settings to assist teachers in providing academic support. Both public and alternative schools are on the program’s list, as are schools inside Department of Juvenile Services facilities. Volunteers work individually and in groups with their assigned youth, also taking part in special activities of local groups and community advocacy agencies. Activities you may be involved with include food drives, creating greeting cards, building gift bags for disadvantaged children and simply spending time building positive
relationships with young people.
MORE ON THE PROGRAM
The Department of Juvenile Services has sponsored the program for more than 30 years. You will regularly be in contact with your program manager, client driver and other volunteers just like you. Check out www.nationalservice.gov for more information or check with your local youth organizations to see if they are involved in the foster grandparents program. FairfaxTimes.com
GIVING BACK
Three Reasons You Should Be Volunteering © FOTOLIA
S
enior citizens across the country are taking advantage of an activity that can make them feel better physically and mentally, while also helping others achieve the same.
Volunteering is sweeping the nation during a time when people need it the most. Senior citizens are rejecting slow-paced retirements and instead focusing on itching the altruistic scratch that they haven’t been able to get to until now. The free time retirement affords can open doors you didn’t know were possible — doors that bring you closer to your community members and help you learn more about what really counts in life.
BRING YOUR EXPERIENCE
Many retired seniors with seasoned proFairfaxTimes.com
fessional backgrounds are lending their skill sets to make a difference in their town or city. Do you have experience as a business executive? Consider volunteering your expertise to a local nonprofit in need of entrepreneurial direction. Are you a retired accountant? Your knowledge may be helpful to a community-focused organization in need of expert bookkeeping or financial planning guidance. The list goes on. Whatever your specialty, there is likely a nonprofit in your neck of the woods that could benefit from your volunteer services.
IT’S IN THE RESEARCH
Volunteerism isn’t just beneficial for those in need. Research shows that volunteers benefit just as much from their efforts. Mental and physical health has been proven to improve in people who choose to volunteer. The National Institute on Aging has reported that participating in social leisure activities and meaningful, productive activities such as volunteering may lower the risk of health problems in seniors, including dementia, as well as improving longevity. According to the Corporation for Na-
tional and Community Service, those who volunteer experience greater life satisfaction, a sense of purpose and accomplishment, more stress resilience and lower rates of depression. That’s because of the special relationships and family-like bonds you can experience while volunteering. Seniors are able to work with people of all ages toward a common goal, giving them strong feelings of self-worth and confidence. These types of attributes are key in helping seniors feel more in tune with themselves and the world around them.
January 2016 | Fairfax County Times SENIORS
13
TRAVEL
INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL TIPS
O
ne of the most exciting parts of retirement is realizing you have the time you’ve always wanted for things like international travel.
Trading in the time clock for a flight schedule is a liberating experience — one that helps you get more freedom, spontaneity and enjoyment out of life. But before you book your flight or pack your bags, keep in mind that preparation is key to any successful trip. From the logistics of the flight to ensuring you bring along any essential medications during your stay, there are many things to consider during the planning phase. Follow our tips below to optimize your travel experience. Get help: Have you ever used a senior-
focused travel agent before? If not, you may consider one for planning your next trip. Check in with your local travel agency to see if they specialize in senior citizen trips. They may have packages available that fit your travel objectives. Remember your medication: If there are certain medications you need every day, it is critical that you remember to pack extra. Also, check in to the medical facilities available in the country you’re planning to visit. It’s never a bad thing to be prepared. Get a checkup: Before leaving the United States, schedule an appointment with your
14 Fairfax County Times SENIORS | January 2016
physician to go over any medical recommendations he has. This can include getting vaccinations required for areas you plan to visit. Pack wisely: When packing your clothes, bring along appropriate options for the climate of the country you’re visiting. Even a tropical destination can have a cold snap, so it’s important to be prepared with the proper
attire. Ready for the long flight: International flights are lengthy, depending on how far you’re traveling. Make sure your on-board bag contains everything that you might require during the duration of the flight. Items such as medication, books and personal identification are key.
FairfaxTimes.com
FairfaxTimes.com
January 2016 | Fairfax County Times SENIORS
15
TECH
INTERESTED IN KEEPING UP WITH PERSONAL TECHNOLOGIES? PATACS MAY BE JUST WHAT YOU’RE LOOKING FOR With personal technologies advancing at a furious pace, it can be hard to keep up. Whether you are a first-time user or an old pro, real computing power comes not only from the latest technology, but also from a user’s capability to get the most benefit from their hardware and software; and that takes both knowledge and experience. That’s where The Potomac Area Technology and Computer Society (PATACS) comes in. PATACS meetings allow local residents with similar interests in PCs and other digital technologies to meet and learn together. Meetings include social opportunities before and at breaks between presentations. Often there are Q&A sessions for attendees experiencing hardware and software computer problems. Sessions with topics are presented at a novice level or as a series of tips. Topics may address issues within an application or helpful hints for using specific programs addressing a unique task. Major presentations or product reviews cover topics of interest, such as networking, genealogy, high dynamic range photography, scanning photos and slides, or security on the
SUBMITTED PHOTO
Internet. Presentations incorporate a Q&A follow-up. Some meetings employ a webinar tool allowing guest speakers or vendors to deliver live presentations remotely. Videoconferencing equipment and cloud meeting services allow members to attend meetings from home or other locations with Internet access. Recordings of prior meeting are
available to members. Meetings also conclude with a door prize drawing. Other benefits: • Monthly software and hardware demos and tutorials focused on your needs and interests, • Discounts from hardware and software vendors and publishers, • Support for most hardware and operating systems. • Help from knowledgeable volunteers to assist upgrading and repairing your system, • “PC Clinics” held each year in June and December to help set up or repair your computer. PATACS Members receive a monthly 16-page newsletter delivered online and via US First Class Mail, containing hardware and software tips and reviews. Meetings are scheduled the third Saturday of each month at the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute, 4210 Roberts Road in Fairfax. Service tables open at 12:30. Meetings start at 1:00 PM, and run until 3:30 PM. For more information go to http://www.patacs.org/
EXPERIENCE A HIGHER STANDARD OF HOME CARE – BRIGHTSTAR CARE® At BrightStar Care®, our goal is to improve the quality of life of those entrusted to our care. > Caregivers > Companions Live-In/Out > Available to You 24/7 > Skilled Nursing Care > Certified Nursing Assistants > Licensed, Bonded & Insured
> Meal Prep > Light Housekeeping > Bathing Assistance > Medication Management > Errands, Shopping & Transportation > No Minimums
Find out why 9 out of 10 clients would recommend BrightStar Care® to family and friends.* * Average likelihood-to-recommend score, National Press Ganey Survey, 2014
Call for your free in-home assessment!
703 267 2380 10530 Warwick Ave. Suite 6C, Fairfax, VA 22030 www.brightstarcare.com/fairfax · kerry.massie@brightstarcare.com Independently Owned & Operated · HCO 15934 16 Fairfax County Times SENIORS | January 2016
FairfaxTimes.com
Vinson Hall RetiRement Community Independent Living, Assisted Living, Healthcare, and Memory Support Vinson Hall Retirement Community is located in idyllic McLean, Virginia. As a resident-focused Life Plan Community, we value independence and individuality. We offer luxurious independent living residences for military officers, their immediate family, and government employees of equal rank. Our assisted living, healthcare, and memory support residences are open to all members of the community. Come see what’s new!
ay d o T l l a C
44 3 4 6 3 5 703
FairfaxTimes.com
www.VinsonHall.org 6251 Old Dominion Drive McLean, Virginia 22101 January 2016 | Fairfax County Times SENIORS
17
PROFILE
30 YEARS: REMEMBERING THE 1986 SPACE SHUTTLE DISASTER SPRINGFIELD SENIOR HAS TIES TO MUCH-REMEMBERED EVENT BY TIMES STAFF
S
“We will never forget them, nor the last time we saw
pringfield resident Tak Kato spent his career as an electrical engineer working in the research, design, and development of operational systems and satellite technology for international space programs. In 1972, Kato joined the National Space Development Agency of Japan (NASDA) in Tokyo as acting manager over the design, development, and integration of the tracking and control software system for the first Japanese geostationary
them, this morning, as they prepared for their journey and waved goodbye and ‘slipped the surly bonds of Earth’ to ‘touch the face of God’.” — Ronald Reagan, Address to the Nation on the Explosion of the Space Shuttle Challenger, January 28, 1986 PHOTO COURTESY JESSICCA MCKAY
satellite. A few years later, he served as the
Area’s newest Retirement Community Opening Spring 2016 Highly Respected Company Serving Families for 15 Years A lifestyle characterized by choice, opportunity and personalized care, focusing on possibilities rather than limitations A full calendar of Programs addresses all dimensions of wellness – Spiritual, Physical, Intellectual, Cultural and Emotional Compassionate and highly-trained associates Health care professionals, including doctors and physical therapists, will hold office hours within the community reducing the transportation burden Plus, our specially designed Wellspring Village® neighborhood, where we are able to create joy for residents and their families despite the challenges people living with dementia face
Welcome Center Now Open
18 Fairfax County Times SENIORS | January 2016
manager for the second generation system. In the early 1980s, Kato worked as senior engineer of NASDA’s System Planning Department and developed a strategy to strengthen domestic geostationary satellite technology in Japan. In 1985, the Japanese government sent Kato to Houston, Texas to assist with the development of the Space Station Freedom program. The program, with the support of Canada, Japan, the United States, and countries of the European Space Agency, was a NASA project intended to build and launch a permanently manned Earth-orbiting space station. Eventually, the project morphed into the International Space Station program. On January 28, 1986—the day of the space shuttle Challenger disaster—Kato was meeting with colleagues at Johnson Space Center in Houston. At the time, Kato was the Japanese Lead Liaison, as well as director of the Houston Liaison Office, for the Space Station Freedom program. The group watched live on television as the Challenger was launched from Cape Canaveral. “After the explosion, I remember some of the NASA engineers getting up one-by-one and leaving,” said Kato. While a shock to all who witnessed it live or learned of it later, the Challenger disaster was even more personal to Kato. While working in Houston in 1985, he was asked if he’d like to have the assistance of a secretary who was fluent in Japanese. He hired Lorna Onizuka, who was the wife of NASA astro-
naut Ellison Onizuka. Onizuka was one of the seven crew members who perished that day in the Challenger explosion. Following the disaster, Kato was part of the coordination team for the delegation of the Japanese government to the U.S. for the Challenger crew’s memorial service at Johnson Space Center, where President Reagan gave a speech. After a few months, Lorna came back to work, Kato recalls. Following the Challenger explosion, Kato moved to the D.C. area where NASA centralized the program office, close to NASA Headquarters. He served as director of the Reston Liaison Office for the Space Station Freedom program until 1993, when he moved back to Japan to serve as the project manager for developing an International Space Station cargo ship. In 1998, he went back to Houston to serve as vice president for the next eight years of JAMSS America, a system engineering organization supporting NASDA. In 2010, he retired from JAMSS America and transitioned back to the D.C. area, when he moved to Greenspring retirement community in Springfield. Kato received a Bachelor of Science degree in engineering from Keio University in Tokyo, and earned a Master of Science degree and a PhD in electrical engineering from the University of Illinois, Urbana. Prior to his work with NASDA, Kato also worked as a graduate research assistant under the Atomic Energy Commission. FairfaxTimes.com
THE MOST CHOICES IN MAIN-LEVEL LIVING FROM THE AREA'S #1 HOMEBUILDER
Discover a variety of beautiful homes located throughout the region featuring 1 st floor owner’s suites, with many communities offering resort-style amenities. Choose from 21 exceptional neighborhoods in the metro area—close to shopping, dining, commuter routes, wine country, trails and golf courses. 1 in 4 homebuyers choose a Ryan home. Come see why our main-level master floorplans are in such high demand!
Culpeper County Fauquier County Frederick County Loudoun County Prince William County Spotsylvania County Stafford County
Learn more at RyanHomesFS.com Prices and availability subject to change without notice. See a Sales and Marketing Representative for details.
FairfaxTimes.com
January 2016 | Fairfax County Times SENIORS
19
&
COUNTRY LIVING CITY LIFE THE BEST OF BOTH WORLDS
Residents since 2010
An Ingleside Community
Let nature inspire you as you walk out your door to a forested trail or gather with friends for quiet coffee and conversation on a deck overlooking the water. Enjoy wine sampling and shopping in the historic town of Occoquan. Or taste city life, just a short ride away, at the Smithsonian, Kennedy Center or Wolf Trap. That’s life at Westminster at Lake Ridge! Here, retirement is a time of renaissance, the continued enjoyment of a fulfilling and engaged life, plus the peace of mind that comes with maintenance-free living and a full continuum of health services.
Now accepting wait list deposits. Call or visit us today! 703-496-5914 | www.wlrva.org 12191 Clipper Drive | Lake Ridge, VA
20 Fairfax County Times SENIORS | October 2015
FairfaxTimes.com