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# F A L L I N T O L E A R N I N G

LIFELONG LEARNING

Fall Semester 2026

#FallIntoLearning Dear Residents, Family, and Guests, At RUI University, Fall is a season to reconnect, rediscover, and learn something new. This semester, Fall into Learning invites residents, families, friends, and members of the greater community to experience thought-provoking classes, cultural traditions, and signature events designed to inspire curiosity and connection. Our Fall curriculum brings lifelong learning to life through engaging discussions, expert perspectives, history, science, and shared experiences. Whether exploring a new subject, exchanging ideas, or simply enjoying the experience of learning together, RUI University offers something for every curious mind. In September, we celebrate National Assisted Living Week (NALW), honoring the vibrant lives, stories, and connections that make our communities special. October explores Forensics & Justice: Science, Society & Truth, examining cuttingedge forensic technologies and the evolving intersection of science and justice, alongside our signature Oktoberfest celebration. In November, Legacy of Service explores the history, impact, and stories of our nation’s veterans as we commemorate Veterans Day, gather for our signature Fall Festival, and celebrate the gratitude and togetherness of Thanksgiving. We warmly invite residents, families, friends, and members of the greater community to #FallIntoLearning with RUI University. Come for a class, discover a new perspective, and experience the connection that makes lifelong learning meaningful at every stage of life. Warmest regards, The RUI University Team

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FINE ARTS Create in Color September 21, 2026 at 3:00 PM October 19, 2026 at 1:30 PM November 16, 2026 at 3:00 PM This paint class is a fun and creative class where students learn how to use different painting techniques, colors, and materials to create artwork. It helps improve creativity, artistic skills, and self-expression.

Heather's dedication to her students shines through in the art shows we host, providing a platform for budding artists to showcase their work. Her commitment to excellence is demonstrated by her representation in several galleries across Baton Rouge, North Carolina, and Virginia, as well as her recent plein air workshop in France, where she shared her expertise with a global audience.

Art Therapy with Mind, Body and Soul September 3 and September 17, 2026 at 11:00 AM October 1 and October 15, 2026 at 11:00 AM November 5 and November 19, 2026 at 11:00 AM This art therapy series helps memory care residents express emotions and memories in a safe, non-verbal way. It supports cognitive function, reduces anxiety, and engages the senses through color, texture, and familiar themes. The class also promotes social interaction and boosts confidence by giving residents a meaningful, successful experience. Beth Oliver is an art therapist and founder of Mind Body Soul Art Therapy in Fairfax, Virginia. Trained at The George Washington University, she uses a gentle, neuroscience-informed approach to help individuals connect, express emotion, and find comfort through creativity. Beth is passionate about supporting olderadults and those living with memory change, offering warm, thoughtful guidance that encourages confidence, calm, and meaningful self-expression.

FINE ARTS Watercolor Techniques September 9, 2026, October 21, 2026, & November 18, 2026 at 2:00 PM Join professional artist Marni Maree for a beginner-friendly watercolor class! Learn essential techniques like color mixing, brush control, and layering while gaining confidence in your creativity. No experience needed—just bring your enthusiasm!

Marni Maree, a Strauss Fellowship recipient, creates vibrant watercolors inspired by her travels and love for beauty. With a background in Fashion Illustration, she teaches workshops worldwide and online. Her award-winning work is regularly exhibited.

PET THERAPY Pets on Wheels September 8, 2026, October 13, 2026, & November 10, 2026 at 10:00 AM This pet visitation series has been medically proven to have a calming effect. Visits by trained pet teams help reduce anxiety, relieve depression, lower blood pressure, encourage communication, and increase socialization. Moreover, touching animals helps chase away loneliness, depression, & withdrawal and encourages a meaningful connection to happier times.

The mission of Fairfax Pets On Wheels, Inc. (FPOW) is to provide companionship and improved quality of life to residents of Fairfax area nursing homes and assisted living facilities through regular pet visitation by trained volunteers and their approved pets.

WILDLIFE Animals of Nobility September 15, 2026 at 10:30 AM Animals have played various roles in history and especially in nobility. Let’s take a look at some of them and how they play a part in history.

Animals in Space October 20, 2026 at 10:30 AM AWhat animals have been in space? Why did they go and how did they help us learn more about space? Meet some of the types of animals that have traveled beyond our world.

Animals Around the World November 15, 2026 at 10:30 AM “Travel” around the world and see up close animals from different continents. Where have you traveled for fun or work? Let’s take a look at some ambassadors from different continents.

Echoes Of Nature (EON) is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to environmental education to help people of all ages better understand, appreciate, and care for wildlife and the natural environment. Through multisensory teaching techniques, EON aims to connect communities to nature and to give individuals of all ages the information and skills needed to become better stewards of natural resources.

WILDLIFE Feathered Friends of Fall Every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday in September at 3:30 PM This event invites residents to celebrate the beauty of Autumn through birds, nature, and seasonal discoveries. Together we'll explore colorful backyard birds, learn about Fall migration, enjoy relaxing birdwatching activities, and create meaningful connections with the changing season.

Autumn Wings & Harvest Skies Every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday in October at 3:30 PM Celebrate the beauty of fall as birds soar through crisp autumn skies and nature prepares for the changing season. Residents will enjoy birdwatching, harvest-inspired activities, and peaceful moments that highlight the colors, sounds, and wonders of Autumn.

Birds of Gratitude Every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday in November at 3:30 PM Come explore the beauty of birds while embracing the spirit of thankfulness. Residents will explore Winter birds, enjoy nature-inspired activities, and reflect on the people, places, and moments that bring joy during the season.

The Bird Buddy smart bird feeder brings joy, stimulation, and comfort to residents in a Memory Care Unit. Its built-in camera captures close-up photos and videos of visiting birds, which are automatically displayed on a tablet or screen for residents to enjoy. This engaging, nature-based technology supports emotional well-being by sparking curiosity, evoking positive memories, and offering a sense of connection to the natural world.

MUSIC THERAPY Neurosound Music Therapy September 17, 2026, October 15, 2026, & November 19, 2026 at 2:00 PM: Our Neurosound Music Therapy class helps memory care residents connect with familiar songs that stimulate memory, emotion, and communication. It reduces anxiety, improves mood, and supports cognitive and sensory engagement through rhythm and melody. The class also encourages social interaction and provides a comforting, uplifting experience NeuroSound Music Therapy is a multidisciplinary creative arts therapy center offering music therapy and adaptive music lessons to individuals across all stages of life. Founded in 2015 by Kelsi Tafaro, the organization has expanded to include a variety of creative arts therapies to meet the growing needs of its clients, and is dedicated to fostering independence, supporting development and growth, and inspiring self-expression through music.

Making Music Together: A Group Music Experience September 10 and September 25, 2026 at 10:30 AM October 8 and October 23, 2026 at 10:30 AM November 12 and November 27, 2026 at 10:30 AM In this group music experience series, instructor Roberta Comack-Kattleman promotes musical engagement, rhythm, and emotional well-being through active participation and play. Her warm and inclusive approach not only stimulates memories but also fosters social connections, bringing joy to participants of all ability levels.

Roberta Comack-Kattleman is a talented music entertainer and music therapist with a wealth of experience in engaging individuals within memory care communities. She designs interactive, uplifting music sessions that promote participation through: Singing Rhythm activities Instrument play

LIVE MUSIC Live Music with Lalo Garcia September 4, 2026 at 2:00 PM October 2, 2026 at 2:00 PM November 6, 2026 at 2:00 PM Eduardo “ Lalo” Garcia is a bass player and singer from Mexico City and has played bass since he was thirteen years old. A very experienced and versatile musician, Lalo can handle multiple styles of music with authenticity. Lalo has played in the US with Chuck Berry, Little Richard, Wanda Jackson, Ron Holloway, and Daryl Davis, with whom he toured Europe and South America.

Live Music with Adam Melia September 18, 2026 at 2:00 PM October 16, 2026 at 2:00 PM November 20, 2026 at 2:00 PM

Adam Melia Music with Nashville Standard Presents provides quality and uplifting vintage style musical entertainment.

Live Music with Vince Borelli September 25, 2026 at 2:00 PM October 30, 2026 at 2:00 PM November 27, 2026 at 2:00 PM Vince can pack up all the energy of his band into a one-man show. With a guitar and a good crowd, Vince can be the heart of any happy hour, cocktail hour, or any other event you have for him. With a HUGE book of songs available, the SOLO PERFORMER show is a winner every time!

LIVE MUSIC Live Music with Ed Schafer September 11, 2026 at 2:00 PM October 23, 2026 at 2:00 PM November 13, 2026 at 2:00 PM Powerful vocalist and guitar player performing acoustic and as a one-man band. Ed Schafer is a dynamic and versatile performer whose professional experience spans more than five decades. A powerful vocalist and accomplished musician, he has performed extensively throughout the United States and Europe.

WELLNESS The Art of Mindful Thinking September 24, 2026 at 3:00 PM In this session, residents explore mindfulness through guided meditation, intentional breathing, and sensory awareness designed to promote relaxation, mental clarity, and cognitive well-being. Mary Rosenthol has over 14 years of experience in the fitness field and is a licensed personal trainer. She specializes in creating engaging, abilitycentered fitness experiences for memory care residents, incorporating gentle movement and exercise to promote strength, mobility, balance, and overall well-being.

SCIENCE + TECHNOLOGY Chemical Detectives: The Case of the Mystery Substance October 23, 2026 at 10:30 AM In this exciting session, residents become forensic scientists in a hands-on sensory investigation. Through safe chemical reactions, observation, and photo clues, residents explore the science behind the evidence, make predictions, and work together to solve the case of the mystery substance

Monica Feazell is a PhD analytical chemist and professor at Northern Virginia Community College who brings science to life through fun, hands-on experiments and demonstrations. Her enthusiasm makes chemistry engaging, accessible, and exciting for everyone!

Then & Now: A Generation Exchange November 25, 2026 at 2:00 PM Explore how everyday life has changed—from rotary phones and film cameras to smartphones and robots! Residents and the LBSS Robotics Team will share memories, compare technologies, and discover how yesterday’s inventions inspired today’s innovations. The Lake Braddock Robotics Team explores the exciting world of emerging technology through robotics, engineering, and programming. Students bring innovation to life through hands-on demonstrations, creative problemsolving, and a passion for discovering how technology is shaping our future.

RUINFORMED Calling All Weather Geeks Age Well Series September 16, 2026 at 4:00 PM Explore the fascinating science behind the weather that shapes our everyday lives. Calling All Weather Geeks features Nicholas Fillo and Amanda Sava of NOAA’s National Weather Service, who will take residents and families behind the forecast to discover how weather is observed, predicted, and communicated. From changing conditions to severe-weather awareness, this engaging conversation offers a closer look at the science, technology, and expertise that help us better understand the atmosphere around us.

The Art of Science and Culinary Cuisine Age Well Series October 21, 2026 at 4:00 PM Discover where creativity, chemistry, and cuisine meet in The Art of Science and Culinary Cuisine, featuring Matthew Deacon, RUI Corporate Director of Culinary Operations. This engaging session explores the science behind the foods we enjoy—from how ingredients interact and cooking techniques transform flavor and texture to the artistry that turns a meal into an experience. Residents and families will gain a fresh perspective on the fascinating relationship between culinary innovation, science, and the senses.

Resilience and Renewal Age Well Series November 18, 2026 at 4:00 PM What helps us remain strong, adaptable, and engaged as we age? Resilience and Renewal, featuring Mark Cifarelli, PT, Director of Clinical Practice for Legacy Healthcare Services, explores the connection between physical resilience, movement, recovery, and maintaining independence throughout the aging journey. Residents and families will discover practical insights for supporting mobility, confidence, and overall well-being while embracing renewal as an important part of aging well.

CULINARY Heirloom Recipes & Culinary Heritage September 21, 2026 at 2:00 PM Celebrate the stories, traditions, and memories preserved through food. Residents will explore how treasured family recipes connect generations, reflect cultural heritage, and strengthen identity while sharing personal recipes and contributing to a community cookbook.

Soups, Stews & Seasonal Roots October 19, 2026 at 3:00 PM Explore the comforting flavors of autumn through Butternut Squash Soup, Hungarian Goulash, and Braised Leeks. Residents will discover how seasonal ingredients, slow-cooking traditions, and warming foods support nourishment and wellness while sharing memories of favorite fall dishes.

Gratitude & Gathering: Celebrating Together November 16, 2026 at 2:30 PM Discover how food, gratitude, and tradition bring people together around the table. Featuring elevated holiday classics such as Sage Stuffing and Cranberry Chutney, residents will explore the connection between shared meals, emotional wellness, and meaningful traditions while reflecting on the foods and gatherings they cherish most.

CULINARY:UNCORKED Lobsters, Wineries & Foods of New England: Coastal Wines & Harvest Stories September 14, 2026 at 3:00 PM Journey through New England’s emerging wine country, where cool coastal climates, local agriculture, and harvest traditions shape distinctive wines. Residents will explore cold-climate winemaking, discover regional grape varieties, and consider how seafood, seasonal foods, and storytelling connect wine to a sense of place.

Germany & Austria: Rieslings and Fall Gold — Harvest Traditions & Noble Grapes October 12, 2026 at 3:00 PM Travel through the celebrated vineyards of Germany and Austria to discover the remarkable range of Riesling and Grüner Veltliner. Residents will explore how cool climates, vineyard slopes, acidity, and harvest timing influence wines from crisp and dry to beautifully balanced sweet styles while discovering the autumn traditions that surround the European wine harvest.

France: Burgundy & Beaujolais — Gratitude in the Glass November 9, 2026 at 3:00 PM Experience two distinctive expressions of French wine culture through Burgundy and neighboring Beaujolais. Residents will compare elegant Pinot Noir and expressive Gamay while exploring terroir, centuries-old winemaking traditions, and the connection between wine, food, and place. A seasonal focus on gratitude invites reflection on the people, traditions, and shared experiences behind every glass.

HEALTH Breath of Life: Lung Vitality & Calm September 9, 2026 at 3:00 PM Discover the powerful connection between breath, movement, and well-being. Breath of Life: Lung Vitality & Calm explores how healthy breathing supports energy, endurance, posture, and relaxation. Residents will learn how mindful breathing, gentle movement, and everyday habits can support lung health while using the breath as a practical tool for greater calm, focus, and vitality.

From the Ground Up: Foot & Balance Elegance October 14, 2026 at 3:00 PM Confident movement begins with a strong foundation. From the Ground Up: Foot & Balance Elegance explores the important role our feet, ankles, posture, and senses play in balance and mobility. Residents will discover practical strategies for supporting foot health, improving stability, choosing supportive footwear, and strengthening balance to promote safer, more confident movement in everyday life.

Grace in Motion: Joyful Rhythms of Dance November 18, 2026 at 3:00 PM Experience the joy of movement while discovering why dance is a powerful form of wholeperson fitness. Grace in Motion: Joyful Rhythms of Dance explores how music and rhythmic movement can support cardiovascular health, balance, coordination, memory, and emotional well-being. Residents will discover how dance—whether seated, standing, or simply moving to a favorite song—can encourage self-expression, social connection, and a joyful approach to lifelong wellness.

SIT BACK, RELAX, + TUNE-IN to our monthly educational webinars where we bring in new subject-matter experts each month to share their insight on a variety of topics. Scan the QR code below to register today!

RESOURCE CENTER W W W . R U I . N E T / R E S O U R C E - C E N T E R

Go online to stay up-to-date with our monthly webinars, book recommendations, online resources, and more!

LIFELONG LEARNING

#FallIntoLearning

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