Larry Lipman

EDITOR’S NOTE: Singer-songwriter Tom Rush, 79, has been an icon on the folk music scene for nearly 60 years. In mid-March, he gave a telephone interview with AARP Virginia volunteer reporter Larry Lipman. Two weeks later, he announced to his fans that he had tested positive for the covid-19 virus. This story was written prior to that announcement.

It’s Friday afternoon as Betty Douglass pulls into the driveway at the home of Maya Huber to give her a ride to an ophthalmologist. It’s a scene played out daily across Northern Virginia: Volunteers giving free rides to older residents who have either given up or restricted their driving.

FALLS CHURCH—"Is there anyone here who has not received a spam phone call?” asked Pamela Houghtaling, an AARP volunteer community ambassador.

MCLEAN—The portions were generous. The conversation was far-ranging. The mood was friendly and welcoming. It was the third Monday of the month and about a dozen diners were schmoozing over sandwiches and salads at Mylo’s Grill in McLean.

About 200 advocates for older Virginians broke bread with area legislators recently and urged them to do more during the upcoming session of the General Assembly to help and protect their most vulnerable constituents.

Remember pouring over the “Help Wanted” section of the classified ads in the newspaper when looking for a job? Remember typing a resume on a typewriter and mailing it to dozens of prospective employers?

The lights had been switched off in the church social hall, and about 40 people sat at tables taking deep, measured breaths.