Aging Gracefully 2026

Wednesday, May 20 8 a.m.-noon Potomac Mills Mall Near Children’s Play Area Free and open to the public

All About ‘Aging Gracefully’ The 2026 Spring Aging Gracefully Expo will take place on Wednesday, May 20, at Potomac Mills Mall. This free community event brings together businesses and organizations from across the region to showcase services, products and valuable resources designed to help

individuals and families plan confidently for the future.

Guests will have the opportunity to connect with experts in senior services, health and wellness, financial planning, home support, community programs and more, all focused on helping residents

age gracefully and stay informed about available local resources.

The event is free and open to the whole community.

Park in the TJ Maxx lot and enter through the store. The expo will take place near the Children’s Play Area.

Key SponSorS Sentara Northern Virginia Medical Center

Vision Partner

Synergy Homecare of Lake Ridge

Senior Celebration Sponsor

Community Health Partner

Presenting Sponsor

Community Health Partner

Photography Sponsor

Media Partner

Morning Sunshine Coffee Sponsor

Potomac Mills Mall InsideNoVa

AARP Prince William

BrightStar Homecare Calluna’s Lens

Birmingham Green

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

INSIDENOVA.COM | MAY 2026 | SENIOR GUIDE & AGING GRACEFULLY

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Welcome to the Spring 2026 ‘Aging Gracefully’ expo

O

learn, ask questions and discover services that n behalf of the Prince William can enhance quality of life and support future Chamber of Commerce, we are planning. honored to welcome you to this The Prince William Chamber year’s event on Wednesday, May 20, remains committed to supporting from 8 a.m. to noon. The Aging the needs of our senior commuGracefully Expo is designed to connect seniors, caregivers nity by fostering meaningful and families with valuable local connections between residents resources, services, and organiand trusted local businesses and organizations. Together, we zations dedicated to supporting continue building a stronger, more healthy, active and informed living.

Kristi Black connected community for seniors Each year, the expo brings throughout our region. together a diverse group of exhibSincerely, itors specializing in areas such as healthcare, Kristi Black wellness, financial planning, housing, travel, Interim CEO home services and community support Prince William Chamber of Commerce programs. Attendees have the opportunity to

An attendee at the 2025 Aging Gracefully expo learns about the AARP’s services.

INSIDENOVA FILE PHOTO

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Under state law, the Prince William three contested general elections for the contest for Feb. 21. The seat was vacated after the Dec. 16 resignation of Cand- Board of County Supervisors cannot ap- district, Republicans have won by an average margin of 2,090 votes. point a temporary reland, a Republican first elected Although the candidates are placement ahead of in 2011. affiliated with political parties, a special or general Candland’s resignation was under state law, they will appear election. It is the only spurred by expanded limitaon the ballot without their party local governing body tions on his voting powers by designation identified. in Virginia specificalCommonwealth’s Attorney Amy The winner of the special elecly barred by state law Ashworth. The recommendation tion will have to run for a full from appointing a temwas tied to Candland’s involveBOB WEIR porary replacement for KERENSA SUMERS four-year term in the November ment as an applicant in the congeneral election, when all eight a vacancy among its troversial PW Digital Gateway

BY TIM CARRINGTON For Foothills Forum seats on the Board of Supervisors are up proposal in his district, which includes members, with very limited exceptions. f Washington’s buildings form Republicans will try to retain the seat, for grabs. nearly 70,000 residents. The project proas is often said, a they would off stage set, poses 27.6 million square feet of data cen- while Democrats hope to capture it for the backdrop to a sweeping drama er a perfect ELECTION PAGE 5 elements first time in more than 30 years. In the last ters on 2,139 acres along Pageland Lane. mixing of renewal, uncertainty For more than and neglect. reinvented itself, four decades, the tiny town has as the Inn at Little expanded its Washington culinary and lodging lifting some two empire, lives. Meanwhile,dozen buildings from their past a parade of outsiders and renovated built homes for retreating, remote-working. retiring or Both patterns are continuing Washington’s commercial, public– investment in structures is estimated and residential

BY JARED FORETEK to be about since 2010, with jforetek@insidenova.com half a dozen major $23 million home A new Manassas City Council was sworn See TOWN, Page into office Tuesday night, with Democrats 12 expanding their advantage to 5-1 on the GAVEL PASSED, MAYOR GETS temporary dais at Jennie Dean Elementary TO WORK Dan Gleason, owner of the School.

Sumac food truck, and his Democrat Sonia Vasquez Luna made a wife Abigail

BY LUKE CHRISTOPHER are leasing Headmaster’s little bit of city history Tuesday, becoming space.

BY BEN PETERS the first Latina woman to serve on City Rappahannock nock County News staff for Marin County, Council. A labor organizer and native of El Sperryville’s California. ter’s Pub was popular Headmas- the Sumac Dan Gleason, owner of Salvador, Vasquez Luna said it was an honor sold and is closing food truck that March, but a in outside parks to be the first Hispanic person to serve on new new ownership restaurant under his wife Pen Druid Brewery, and will take its the council. soon after. place the coupleAbigail are leasing from the space where “It’s not only an honor but a responsibiliCurrent owners Jordan and Cliff master’s currently sits and Headty that I don’t take lightly … I’m really hap- Democrat Sonia Vasquez Luna was sworn into office on Manassas City Council Tuesday night. Vasquez Miller IV are plans to leaving RappahanJARED FORETEK | INSIDENOVA py,” Vasquez Luna said after being sworn Luna is the first Hispanic person to serve on the council.

New Town Mayor See PUB, Page

BY LUKE CHRISTOPHER ALSO MAKING in. “We are ready for the responsibility. I’ve on the council, Coates Ellis is the sole Re17 Mayor Fred CatlinJoe Whited honors former NEWS Manassas Council Terms New been talking to each one of you and getting publican on the council. She has historically in his inaugural era begins with a boost for business address. to know you. I’m looking forward to work- been one of the most conservative members » Tom Osina: 2020-2024  Page 8 ing together as Manassas celebrates 150 on the council when it comes to budgeting » Pamela J. Sebesky: 2020-2024  Page 6 issues, advocating for smaller budgets and years.” » Mark D. Wolfe: 2020-2024 Tuesday’s gathering was held at Jennie lower real estate and property tax rates. The » Theresa Coates Ellis: 2022-2026  Page 15 Dean Elementary due to ongoing renova- council’s fiscal 2024 budgeting will start in » Ralph J. Smith: 2022-2026 earnest in the upcoming weeks. tions at City Hall. » Sonia Vasquez Luna: 2022-2026 “I want to welcome Sonia to the council.

Meanwhile, Democrat Ralph Smith and Republican Teresa Coates Ellis were sworn in I look forward to working closely with her » Mayor Michelle Davis-Younger: 2020-2024 for their second terms. With Vasquez Luna (mayor votes only in case of ties) COUNCIL PAGE 8 replacing Republican Lynn Forkell Greene

The stage is set for a February special election to fill the seat vacated by former Prince William County Supervisor Pete Candland in the Gainesville District.

Haymarket Town Council member Bob Weir, who won the Republican nomination in a contested election Monday night, will face Democrat Kerensa Sumers on the ballot next month.

Judge Kimberly Irving issued a writ of special election last week scheduling the

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SENIOR GUIDE & AGING GRACEFULLY | MAY 2026 | INSIDENOVA.COM

Spring 2026 ‘Aging grAcefully’ expo SponSorS VISION PARTNER

MEDIA PARTNER

PRESENTING SPONSOR

SENIOR CELEBRATION SPONSOR

COMMUNITY HEALTH PARTNER

COMMUNITY HEALTH PARTNER

MORNING SUNSHINE COFFEE SPONSOR

PHOTOGRAPHY SPONSOR

OTHER EXHIBITORS Able Moving and Storage

Closet Factory – Northern Virginia/ Prince William County

Aspen Dental Assisted Living Locators of NOVA

Comfort Keepers of Greater Prince William

Belmont Bay Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center

Daar Care Group

Broadview Pest Management Brookdale Lake Ridge

Palliative Care

Prince William Area Agency on Aging

Home Helpers Home Care of Gainesville

Rentokil Terminix

House of Mercy

DATA Mobility Partners

Literacy Volunteers of America – Prince William Inc.

Dentists of Dumfries

Matt Cockerham, RE/MAX Realty Group

DeSeguros LLC

Burke & Herbert Bank – Smoketown Branch, Woodbridge

Dobro Handyman Services LLC

CaptionCall

ENNOBLECARE

Children’s Art Classes

Heartland Hospice and Empatia

Society of Financial Awareness Srilekha Specialized Health Clinics Inc. The Medical Team The SkillSource Group Tribute at the Glen

Mobility City Nova Eye Experts OmniRide

Ukemi Health Westminster at Lake Ridge Whitlock Wealth

DAAR Home Care Home Health Care in Manassas, VA.

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INSIDENOVA.COM | MAY 2026 | SENIOR GUIDE & AGING GRACEFULLY

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Senior Resources to Explore at the ‘Aging Gracefully’ Expo STRETCH ZONE CENTREVILLE AND HEALTHSOURCE CHIROPRACTIC Stretch Zone Centreville and HealthSource Chiropractic of Manassas bring a powerful, results-driven approach to wellness across Northern Virginia. At Stretch Zone Centreville, clients experience practitioner-assisted stretching designed to improve flexibility, mobility and overall performance. Whether you’re an athlete, a busy professional or simply someone looking to move better, personalized sessions at StretchZone Centreville help reduce stiffness, enhance recovery and support an active lifestyle.

Complementing this, HealthSource Chiropractic of Manassas focuses on relieving back pain, neck pain, sciatica, headaches and posture-related concerns through targeted, patient-centered care.

As a chiropractic, rehab and wellness clinic, the goal is to address the root cause and not just symptoms so patients can achieve pain free life, regain strength and function Together, these two locally owned businesses create a comprehensive wellness solution by helping the community move better, feel stronger, and live healthier

every day.

Call Healthsource Chiropractic of Manassas at 703-546-BACK and Stretchzone Centreville at (703) 337-3090 to get started.

ASPEN DENTAL Aspen Dental in Manassas is beginning a new chapter under recent ownership, bringing fresh energy and a strong foundation of clinical experience to the community. Located at 8441 Sudley Road in Manassas, the practice is owned and led by Dr. Ritika Kailey, who brings years of hands-on expertise and a focus on delivering comprehensive, patient-centered care in a modern setting. Patients have access to a wide range of services, including oral surgery with sedation, root canals, preventive hygiene, restorative dentistry and dental implants – all conveniently offered in one location.

The practice also emphasizes accessibility, offering free exams for patients without insurance and discounts for seniors, veterans and first-time denture wearers, along with flexible financing options to help make treatment more manageable. With extended hours and Saturday availability once a month, Aspen

Helping You Stay Mobile

REPAIRS • RENTALS • SALES At Mobility City of Alexandria, VA, we focus on providing seniors and disabled people with the independence to live a better quality of life.

Many people spend over twelve hours a day in their mobility equipment, and our team is ready to assist you with all of your mobility needs.

• Scooters • Wheelchairs • Lift Chairs

• Hospital Beds • Home Safety & Access

• Vehicle Lifts Much More!

MOBILITY CITY OF ALEXANDRIA 5586 General Washington Dr, Alexandria, Va 22312 703-772-5030 | https://mobilitycity.com/alexandria-va/ bennet.helfgott@mobilitycity.com

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Dental in Manassas is positioned to meet the needs of today’s busy patients while maintaining a strong commitment to clinical excellence.

OMNIRIDE Spring has sprung! The better weather means we can start taking advantage of all our area has to offer – a trip into Washington, local shopping, lunch with friends or catching up on health appointments.

Whether you no longer drive or simply don’t want to deal with the congestion, OmniRide can get you wherever you want to go on our free Local or Metro Express buses. OmniRide Access, a paratransit program that serves disabled riders who require off-route pick-up and drop-off, is available on both the eastern and western sides of the county. Passengers must apply and reserve trips in advance. OmniRide Connect is a free microtransit service that allows passengers to book same-day travel, and riders are transported in vans.

It operates in the Manassas Park and Quantico/Dumfries/Triangle areas.

Learn more at OmniRide.com or book a presentation about OmniRide services by calling our outreach specialist at (703) 580-6127.

BROOKDALE LAKE RIDGE Located in Woodbridge – just 25 miles south of Washington – Brookdale Lake Ridge is a premier senior living community specializing in assisted living and memory care. By offering both levels of care on a single campus, the community ensures residents can age in place even as their needs evolve.

Care & Personalized Support: The hallmark of Brookdale Lake Ridge is its person-centered approach. Each resident receives a customized service plan that balances independence with support for daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and medication management. For those with Alzheimer’s or dementia, the specialized Clare Bridge program provides a secure, structured environment focused on maintaining cognitive skills and fostering a sense of belonging through research-backed activities.

Amenities & Lifestyle: Residents trade household chores like cooking and cleaning for a vibrant, maintenance-free lifestyle. Key features include: • Dining: Restaurant-style meals served in a communal setting, with specialized nutrition for memory care.

• Engagement: A robust social calendar featuring B-Fit fitness classes, Brain Fit programs, arts and crafts and local excursions.

• On-site comforts: A library, game room, beauty/barber shop and a scenic courtyard.

• Safety: 24-hour staff availability and

SENIOR GUIDE & AGING GRACEFULLY | MAY 2026 | INSIDENOVA.COM

emergency response systems in every apartment.

With its blend of professional care and home-like atmosphere, Brookdale Lake Ridge offers a secure, enriching environment for seniors to thrive.

DAAR HOME CARE DAAR Home Care was founded through a deeply personal caregiving journey rooted in compassion, dignity and love. After caring for her father during his battle with Parkinson’s Disease, founder Asha Abdulla witnessed firsthand the challenges families face when trying to balance quality care, emotional support, and preserving a loved one’s independence. That experience became the foundation and heart behind DAAR’s mission.

Today, DAAR Home Care proudly provides personalized non-medical home care services to seniors and individuals with disabilities throughout Northern Virginia. Our services are thoughtfully designed to help clients age safely, comfortably and confidently in the place they cherish most – home. From companionship and personal care to transportation assistance, respite care, dementia support, meal preparation and post-operative care, every service is delivered with empathy, professionalism and respect.

As an end-of-life doula, Asha also offers compassionate guidance and emotional support to families navigating life’s most delicate transitions. At DAAR, we believe exceptional care begins with genuine human connection – because every client deserves to be treated like family.

Call (571) 657-7279 or visit daarhomecare.com.

HOUSE OF MERCY House of Mercy provides essential food, clothing and hope to neighbors in need, supporting 80-100 families through our Food Pantry each day. For these neighbors, House of Mercy is more than just a resource; it is a lifeline that ensures children, seniors and hardworking parents don’t go to bed hungry.

The need in our community continues to grow, and we cannot meet it alone. We invite you to join our mission and make a tangible difference in the lives of those we serve. Your support allows us to keep our shelves stocked and our programs running for the families who rely on us daily.

How you can help: The most effective way to support our work is through a financial contribution. Your support helps us buy fresh produce, pantry staples and essential supplies. Learn more about our impact and make a secure donation online at houseofmercyva.org/givenow.

Together, we can ensure no family in our community is left behind.

RESOURCES

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RESOURCES

FROM PAGE 4

SPECIAL EVENT

Trading Chores for Choices FIZKES | ISTOCK VIA GETTY IMAGES PLUS

TERMINIX At Terminix, we believe your home should be your sanctuary – a place of comfort, not a source of stress. For seniors, maintaining a safe and healthy environment is a top priority, and that starts with keeping unwanted guests out of the spots you rarely see.

Right now, we are in peak swarming season. If you’ve noticed winged insects fluttering near your windows or discarded wings on your windowsills, your home may be at risk. Termite swarmers are a clear sign that a colony is looking to expand, often targeting the quietest parts of your home.

Our experts specialize in securing the most vulnerable areas of your property: • The attic: We clear out pests that compromise your air quality and insulation.

• The crawl space: We address moisture and entry points to prevent structural damage and mold.

Don’t let a hidden problem become a costly headache. Let Terminix handle the heavy lifting so you can focus on enjoying your home.

Call us today for a specialized inspection. We’ll help you keep your home healthy, sturdy and pest-free! Call (855) 485-6300 or (8440 423-5453.

HERITAGE VILLAGE Because home should be special.

Compassionate support, cutting-edge programming, a health and wellness navigation team for helping residents maintain a healthy lifestyle, and excellent staffing – that’s only the beginning at Heritage Village.

Here, residents enjoy a relaxed ambiance with opportunities for engaging,

exploring and staying connected. Add a lovely setting with mountain views and you have a lifestyle that welcomes and restores. Call today and let us tell you more.

VIRGINIA CAREER WORKS / SKILLSOURCE Virginia Career Works-Northern and the SkillSource Group Inc. connect job seekers and employers in Northern Virginia to the resources they need to succeed in a dynamic economy.

Through a network of comprehensive Virginia Career Works centers and partner organizations, Virginia Career Works-Northern provides career coaching, skills assessment, training referrals, job search assistance and employer engagement services aligned with regional labor market needs. The system works closely with businesses, education providers, and community partners to strengthen talent pipelines and support economic growth.

One of its key programs is the Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP), which serves low income individuals aged 55 and older.

SCSEP provides paid, part-time community service training opportunities with nonprofit and public agencies, allowing participants to build skills, gain recent work experience and enhance employability. Along with wages, participants receive supportive services and individualized employment planning, with the goal of transitioning into unsubsidized employment.

Together, Virginia Career Works-Northern and SCSEP promote inclusive workforce participation and help individuals of all ages achieve greater economic stability.

How Senior Living Upsizes Your Life When you visit your parents, are you spending time making memories — or making repairs? You're invited to Commonwealth Senior Living's exclusive event where we will explore how downsizing a home can actually upsize your life. Discover how offloading the burdens of home maintenance opens the door to purposeful days, stronger relationships, and a lifestyle where every choice is theirs, and every chore is ours.

Thursday, June 11th, 2 - 4 p.m. at Clear River Community Church

9817 Godwin Drive, Suite #201, Manassas

RSVP and reserve a New Chapter Toolkit today!

703-420-7097

Assisted Living & Memory Care

www.CommonwealthSL.com

INSIDENOVA.COM | MAY 2026 | SENIOR GUIDE & AGING GRACEFULLY

5

Manage Your Medications Effectively & Avoid Significant Risks a 100% chance that your medication will do what it’s prescribed to do. This also lowers the possibility of unwanted side edication management is the effects. process of ensuring that your Are you storing your medication medications are taken safely, at the right temperature and effectively and on schedule, with humidity? Bathrooms are often guidance from your healthcare too humid for medications. providers. This maximizes the It’s important to read and benefits to you and minimizes follow the storage instructions the risks. carefully.

There are significant risks Keeping medications secure when you’re not managing your and out of reach of children medications. Trying to save Alice Paxton and pets is a safety procedure money by cutting a pill in half everyone should follow. Some or sharing your medicine with medications can be fatal to children and your partner involves risks. It’s importpets if ingested. ant to take your medications exactly as prescribed by your doctors. It’s also TOOLS TO HELP YOU WITH important not to take new medications MEDICATION MANAGEMENT or supplements you discover without disThere are tools that can help you mancussing them with your doctor. They can negate the benefits of the medications you age your medications properly and increase your independence in the process: are already taking and introduce risks.

• Use timers, alarms or smartphone It’s critical to take your medications as prescribed. Don’t crush or break pills apps for your medication reminders.

• Pill organizers, found at any pharmaor open capsules without asking your doctor or pharmacist first. Doing so can cy, can help you take your medicachange how your medication works or its tions properly. These organizers are effectiveness. available with daily, weekly or even When you take your medications at the monthly packs. In addition, there proper dosage at the right time, you have are organizers with a morning, noon

BY ALICE PAXTON

M

It’s best to keep medications that aren’t currently in your pillbox in their original bottles or containers.

and evening compartment for your medications. Many of these are clear so you can see at a glance if you’ve taken your medication at the time you should have.

Your pharmacist is also a valuable resource and tool. Whenever possible, get all your prescriptions at the same pharmacy. When you use one pharmacy, all of

your medication records are in one place.

This helps your pharmacist protect you from drug interactions and makes getting your prescription refills simpler. It also enables the pharmacist to evaluate your risk and work with your doctor to avoid potential problems. Your pharmacist PALADIN

PAGE 7

Fall Prevention: An Educational Seminar

Northern Virginia Senior Community Services Employment Program (SCSEP)

Thursday, May 21 1:00 p.m.

Light refreshments will be served.

Falls are the leading cause of injury among seniors. Find out how to prevent them during our expert-led seminar.

SCSEP provides temporary community service training opportunities to older Americansto prepare them for jobs in their community. SCSEP participants ages 55+ who are unemployed and meet financial guidelines, can train up to 29 hours a week, and are paid directly by SCSEP.

• Why fall prevention matters • Eye-opening facts and risks

Participants are placed in a wide variety of community service training assignments at nonprofit and public facilities. This on-thejob training experience can then be used as a bridge to find employment opportunities outside of the program.

• Simple prevention strategies • Helpful safety resources

RSVP today at (703) 822-5604.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT: Virginia Judd scsep@vcwnorthern.com 571-363-7688 TTY: 711 https://vcwnorthern.com/scsep/ 13650 Heathcote Blvd. | Gainesville, VA 20155 HeritageVillageGainesville.com | (703) 822-5604 Virginia Career Works – Northern is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Program.

Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities.

6

SENIOR GUIDE & AGING GRACEFULLY | MAY 2026 | INSIDENOVA.COM

PALADIN

FROM PAGE 6

can answer any questions you may have forgotten to ask your doctor and they can help you stay on track.

If you have difficulty opening a medication bottle or container, let your pharmacist know. They can put your medication in a container that is easier for you to open.

OTHER RECOMMENDATIONS It’s best to keep medications that aren’t currently in your pillbox in their original bottles or containers. The labels on these include the medicine name, dosage, clinician’s name and the expiration date.

The instructions that come with medications contain important information about storage and possible side effects. It’s advisable to keep those instructions too.

Highlight when it’s time to refill your prescription and how many refills you have left on your prescription bottle. If there are no refills left, your pharmacist can contact your doctor for a refill. If you need this medication immediately, let your pharmacist know. They may be able to provide you with several doses until your prescription is refilled.

If you don’t have a complete medication list, it’s a good idea to create one. It should include all the medications and supplements you take. Be sure to include the name, dosage, how often you take them, when it’s best to take them (with food, on an empty stomach, with water, etc.) who prescribed them and what they are for.

You should keep a copy of your medication list with you at all times in case of an emergency or if you are seeing a new care provider.

Be sure to tell your doctor if you experience any side effects at all – even mild ones. Also, share with your doctor if it seems like your medication is becoming less effective so they can change the dosage if needed or prescribe another medication. Don’t change taking your medications without your doctor’s direction.

QUESTIONS TO ASK ABOUT NEW MEDICATIONS • Will this new medication affect my ability to drive, do my work or other daily activities?

• Is it okay to continue my over-thecounter medications with this new medication?

MANAGING EXPIRED OR DISCONTINUED MEDICATIONS If your physician tells you to discontinue a medicine, it’s best to dispose of it immediately. Don’t keep them for future needs. Also, you should always dispose of medications that are expired.

Managing your medications effectively is important for your health.

Alice Paxton, M.Ed., CDP, is the founder and CEO of Paladin Life Care, providing exceptional care and advocacy for senior clients and those with disabilities in Virginia, Maryland and the District of Columbia.

Would You Like to Stay in Your Home as You Age? Paladin Life Care’s superior, customized services help you enjoy independent aging safely, comfortably, and successfully.

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Everything You Need to Know About Generic Medicines

A

OmniRide Gets You There!

• 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.

RIDE FREE through June 30!

t a time when many basic living expenses are rising, generic medicines play a critical role in expanding access to safe, effective and affordable treatments, helping patients avoid difficult tradeoffs between their health and other basic needs.

In fact, generic drugs account for over 90% of all U.S. prescriptions, saving patients and the healthcare system hundreds of billions of dollars a year, according to the Association for Accessible Medicines.

Despite the prevalence of generic medications, patients often have questions about how they work and how they differ from compounded medicines.

Amneal, a U.S. based global biopharmaceutical company focused on expanding access to high-quality medicines, is providing answers to commonly asked questions: Do the medications advertised on television as “generics” work as well as brand-name medicines?

Sometimes a patient will see an advertisement online or get a telehealth prescription for a “generic” that turns out to be a compounded medication.

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Generics are equivalent versions of brand-name medicines, which means that the generic medicines have the same active ingredients, dosages, strengths, routes of administration, conditions of use and labeling.

Often the television advertisements are for compounded or “pharmacy-made” medications. Unlike a compounded medicine, an FDA-approved generic must demonstrate bioequivalence; this ensures the product’s identity, strength, quality and purity.

These rigorous standards mean that generic medicine works in the same way and provides the same clinical benefit as the brand-name medicine. Put simply, patients can expect the same safety and effectiveness from FDA-approved generics medicine as they would from their brand-name counterparts.

What types of medicines have generic equivalents?

Generic equivalents encompass a wide range of medications made possible by continued innovation and investment in GENERICS

PAGE 9

GENERICS

FROM PAGE 8

complex drug development and manufacturing.

The number of U.S. facilities making generic medicines has declined by 27% since 2013. By contrast, Amneal continues to invest in its New York, New Jersey and Kentucky manufacturing and distribution capacity to deliver complex oral solids, injectables, ophthalmics, liquids, topicals, softgels, inhalation products and transdermals across a range of therapeutic categories.

The consistent supply of complex and high barrier generic medicines that are more difficult to manufacture, yet still more affordable, is critical for patients and providers.

“We’re focused on expanding access to essential medicines by taking on complex products others may not, because every dose matters,” said Chirag Patel, Amneal’s co-founder and co-CEO. Are generic medicines safe?

FDA-approved generics can give

doctors and patients confidence that they have undergone strict regulatory review and ongoing quality oversight. Patients can also reduce exposure to potential counterfeit or unsafe products by looking for the “FDA Approved” label, which can be verified using trusted resources such as FDA.gov and DailyMed, and by watching for these possible signs: • Does the medicine or packaging look different from what you normally receive?

• Have you experienced a new or unusual side effect after using the medicine?

• Did you buy the medicine from an online pharmacy?

Continued investment in complex generics and U.S.-based manufacturing is helping make medicines more affordable and reliable, resulting in healthier patients, stronger communities and a more sustainable healthcare system.

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One in four people will have a stroke in their lifetime, according to the World Stroke Organization, yet many don’t know the risk factors or understand the path to recovery.

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Understanding Stroke: Risk Factors, Early Signs and Life After

A

stroke is caused by an interruption of blood flow to the brain, often resulting in impaired mobility, permanent loss of speech or vision, or even death, according to Bayer.

One in four people will have a stroke in their lifetime, according to the World Stroke Organization, yet many don’t know the risk factors or understand the path to recovery.

Dr. Sara Hegab, vice president, Stroke & Thrombosis, Specialty and Pipeline, U.S. Medical Affairs at Bayer, is sharing stroke facts that everyone should know.

WHAT LIFESTYLE CHANGES REDUCE STROKE RISK? There are five general lifestyle changes you can focus on to help reduce your risk for having a stroke: 1.

Incorporate basic exercise into your daily routine.

2.

Control cholesterol levels, high blood pressure and diabetes. Talk with your doctor about any medicines or lifestyle changes you may need to help you with this.

3.

Avoid smoking, which greatly increases stroke and cardiovascular disease in general.

4.

Maintain a healthy weight.

5.

Pay attention to nutrition. A healthy, balanced diet helps ensure you’re getting vital vitamins and nutrients and helps control other risk factors.

WHAT ARE THE WARNING SIGNS OF A STROKE? According to Bayer, the most common warning signs of stroke are weakness in

SENIOR GUIDE & AGING GRACEFULLY | MAY 2026 | INSIDENOVA.COM

the face, arm or leg, particularly on one side of the body; trouble speaking; vision problems out of one or both eyes; severe headache, and dizziness or loss of balance and coordination. Rapid medical treatment is vital.

Patients and care partners should know the “FAST” signs (Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech slurring and Time to call 911) to recognize if someone might be having a stroke.

WHAT CAN I EXPECT AFTER EXPERIENCING A STROKE? No two strokes are the same. Some survivors experience minor short-term effects. For others, it’s a life-altering event with long-term disability and complications, impacting everyday things we sometimes take for granted, like speech, balance and coordination.

Recovery is a process addressing a combination of the physical effects (like weakness, stiffness and numbness), cognitive effects (challenges recognizing, remembering and processing information) and emotional effects (like anxiety, sadness, anger and frustration), according to Bayer.

In addition to medication, your doctor may recommend gentle rehabilitation exercises and structured rehab programs, either in a hospital, inpatient facility or at home, which may include physical therapy to rebuild strength and mobility, occupational therapy to support daily activities and speech therapy if communication or swallowing is affected. Patient support networks can also be crucial for STROKES

PAGE 11

STROKES

FROM PAGE 10

mental well-being and recovery.

WHAT LINGERING SYMPTOMS ARE NORMAL AFTER A STROKE? Because the brain is such a complex organ, not every stroke affects every person the same way. However, it’s normal to experience fatigue, vision problems and difficulties with balance, coordination or general movement.

Be patient with yourself if you find it hard to remember, recognize and process information the way you did before the stroke. Talk to family, friends or doctors about your anxieties or fears. It’s important to be seen and heard, and to know that you’re not alone.

MORE INFORMATION

» To learn more about stroke, visit stroke.org

up, and shared decision-making with their healthcare team can help shape their road to recovery.

Being a care partner can be a demanding role, so take breaks, lean on family and friends for help, consider joining a care partner support group and maintain your own health through nutrition, exercise and rest.

WHAT INCREASES MY RISK OF ANOTHER STROKE? In addition to lifestyle factors, people who have already experienced a stroke CAN YOU FULLY RECOVER FROM A STROKE? face a high risk of a second event. It is estimated that 20% to 30% of the 12 Full recovery from a stroke is possible million people who experience a stroke for some, but many patients will continworldwide each year will have a recurrent ue to experience minor impairments or stroke, with one in five survivors suffering lifelong disabilities. another within five years.

Depending on the severity of the That’s why it’s crucial to remain under a stroke, recovery may take weeks, months doctor’s supervision, to take any medicaor even years, but tends to be most rapid tions as prescribed and to adopt healthy in the first three months after the event, according to the Centers for Disease Con- habits. trol and Prevention.

HOW DO I PREVENT Rehabilitation with speech, physiANOTHER STROKE? cal and occupational therapists may Research from the CDC shows that help your brain and body more quickly 80% of recurrent, clot-related (ischemic) “relearn” the skills you can lose after a strokes can be prevented, and a second stroke. stroke is often more disabling than the first.

HOW CAN A CAREGIVER SUPPORT SOMEONE RECOVERING FROM A Work with your health care team to STROKE? address the underlying factors that led Behind every survivor is someone who to your stroke. Bring a list of questions to your medical appointments and help helps lighten their burden. Caregivers create a tailored prevention plan. This should be patient with anyone adjusting to life after a stroke. Celebrate their small may include medicine or procedures or lifestyle changes. Be sure to take your victories, listen to their fears and anxmedicine as directed and follow your ieties and help them conduct research doctor’s instructions. and explore support groups if desired.

By understanding stroke, you can If possible, accompany them to doctor reduce your risk and better navigate appointments. recovery.

Patient empowerment through educa– StatePoint tion, making lifestyle changes, speaking

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Everything You Need to Know About Generic Medicines

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t a time when many basic living expenses are rising, generic medicines play a critical role in expanding access to safe, effective and affordable treatments, helping patients avoid difficult tradeoffs between their health and other basic needs.

In fact, generic drugs account for over 90% of all U.S. prescriptions, saving patients and the healthcare system hundreds of billions of dollars a year, according to the Association for Accessible Medicines.

Despite the prevalence of generic medications, patients often have questions about how they work and how they differ from compounded medicines.

Amneal, a U.S. based global biopharmaceutical company focused on expanding access to high-quality medicines, is providing answers to commonly asked questions: Do the medications advertised on television as “generics” work as well as brand-name medicines?

Sometimes a patient will see an advertisement online or get a telehealth prescription for a “generic” that turns out to be a compounded medication.

12

SENIOR GUIDE & AGING GRACEFULLY | MAY 2026 | INSIDENOVA.COM

Generics are equivalent versions of brand-name medicines, which means that the generic medicines have the same active ingredients, dosages, strengths, routes of administration, conditions of use and labeling.

Often the television advertisements are for compounded or “pharmacy-made” medications. Unlike a compounded medicine, an FDA-approved generic must demonstrate bioequivalence; this ensures the product’s identity, strength, quality and purity.

These rigorous standards mean that generic medicine works in the same way and provides the same clinical benefit as the brand-name medicine. Put simply, patients can expect the same safety and effectiveness from FDA-approved generics medicine as they would from their brand-name counterparts.

What types of medicines have generic equivalents?

Generic equivalents encompass a wide range of medications made possible by continued innovation and investment in GENERICS

PAGE 9