September 2026
The Home Sweet Home
Senior & Family Resource Guide
Helping families find useful information — close to home. ♥
Helpful information, seasonal reminders, community resources, and practical tips for seniors, caregivers, and families across Hampton Roads.
September brings the beginning of a new season, cooler days, and a good opportunity to check in on the things that help older adults remain safe, healthy, active, and independent at home.
This month, we’re sharing simple fall-preparation reminders, fall-prevention information, seasonal health tips, community activities, and resources for seniors and their families throughout Hampton Roads.
Seasonal Reminder
Fall Is Almost Here: A Few Simple Ways to Get Ready
A little preparation now can make the months ahead easier. ♥
The first signs of fall are a good reminder to take care of a few things around the home before cooler weather and shorter days arrive.
A September Home Checklist
Fall Safety
September 21–25: Falls Prevention Awareness Week
Falls are not simply an inevitable part of getting older. Small changes around the home, good lighting, supportive footwear, medication reviews, and staying active can all help reduce fall risk.
If you’ve noticed a loved one becoming less steady, holding onto furniture while walking, avoiding stairs, or becoming afraid of falling, it may be time to take a closer look at home safety.
Seasonal Health Reminder
Flu Season Is Coming
A good time to plan ahead for fall health. ♥
September and October are generally good times for most people to receive their annual flu vaccine.
Adults age 65 and older are at higher risk of serious complications from influenza. Your doctor or pharmacist can help determine which vaccine is most appropriate based on age and health history.
Flu vaccines are commonly available at:
- Doctors’ offices
- Pharmacies
- Health departments
- Clinics and urgent care centers
Remember that it takes approximately two weeks after vaccination for the body to develop protective antibodies.
Community Connection
September Is National Senior Center Month
More than a place to spend the afternoon. ♥
Senior centers can offer opportunities for social connection, wellness, learning, and practical support.
Things to Do
Activities & Wellness
- Exercise and wellness classes
- Games and social activities
- Educational programs
- Arts and crafts
- Day trips and special events
Resources & Support
Helpful Support
- Meals
- Transportation information
- Benefits and resource assistance
- Volunteer opportunities
- Community connections
For an older adult who has become isolated or simply wants more opportunities to get out and meet people, the local senior center can be a wonderful resource.
Ways to Save
Prescription Costs
The price at the counter may not be your only option.
Prescription prices can vary significantly from one pharmacy or program to another. Before assuming the price at the counter is your only option, it may be worth comparing several resources.
GoodRx
GoodRx allows you to compare prescription discount prices at participating pharmacies and find coupons that may lower the cash price of a medication.
Visit GoodRx →Mark Cuban Cost Plus Drugs
Cost Plus Drugs is an online pharmacy that offers many common medications using transparent pricing and home delivery.
Visit Cost Plus Drugs →TrumpRx.gov
TrumpRx.gov is a federal prescription-savings website that can help consumers compare discounted prices on participating medications and explore lower-cost options.
Visit TrumpRx.gov →Walmart Low-Cost Prescriptions
Walmart offers select generic medications at reduced cash prices. Some commonly prescribed medications may be available for as little as $4 for a 30-day supply.
View Walmart’s Program →Medicare Extra Help
People with Medicare who have limited income and resources may qualify for Extra Help with Medicare Part D prescription drug costs.
Learn About Extra Help →Manufacturer Assistance Programs
Some pharmaceutical companies offer patient assistance or savings programs for certain medications. Eligibility and savings vary by medication and program.
Ask your doctor, pharmacist, or the medication manufacturer whether assistance may be available.
Medication prices, program participation, and eligibility can change. Always confirm current pricing and requirements directly with the pharmacy or program.
Around Hampton Roads
A Few September Activities
Getting out can be good for the calendar and the spirit. ♥
Smithfield
Smithfield Fall Vintage Market
Historic Downtown Smithfield
September 26 • 10:00 AM–4:00 PM
A fall market in historic downtown Smithfield featuring vintage finds, antiques, repurposed goods, local vendors, food, and shopping.
More Information →Chesapeake
Senior Pig Pickin’
Chesapeake City Park
September 18 • 11:00 AM–1:00 PM
A special event for adults 55 and better featuring barbecue, live music, socializing, and plenty of fun.
Registration required by September 11.
More Information →Chesapeake
Symphony Under the Stars
Chesapeake City Park
September 6 • Evening
A free, family-friendly outdoor concert featuring the Virginia Symphony Orchestra. Bring chairs or a blanket and enjoy an evening of music under the stars.
More Information →Williamsburg
Williamsburg Farmers Market
Duke of Gloucester Street
September 5, 12, 19 & 26 • 8:00 AM–12:00 PM
A Saturday morning market featuring local produce, foods, handmade goods, and community vendors in downtown Williamsburg.
More Information →Newport News
Southeast Community Day Parade & Festival
Newport News
September 12 • Begins at 9:30 AM
A community parade and festival featuring local activities, special guests, and a day of neighborhood celebration.
More Information →Suffolk
Low Stress Chess
Downtown Suffolk Library
September 9 • 6:00–7:30 PM
A friendly chess meetup for all ages and skill levels. Beginners are welcome, and chess boards are provided.
More Information →Hampton
Senior BINGO
Willow Oaks Branch Library
Wednesdays • 1:00–2:00 PM
Free bingo with prizes for adults ages 55 and older. A simple, fun opportunity to socialize and meet others.
More Information →Hampton
Be N Good Health Conference
94 Lincoln Street • Hampton
September 18–19
A health and wellness conference featuring educational programs, vendors, activities, and free health screenings on Saturday.
More Information →Tip: Local libraries, parks and recreation departments, senior centers, and community centers frequently add events throughout the month, so check your city’s calendar for additional activities.
For Family Caregivers
You Don’t Have to Do Everything Yourself
Caring for an aging parent, spouse, or other loved one can be rewarding, but it can also become overwhelming.
Even a few hours of support can give a family caregiver time to work, run errands, attend appointments, spend time with their own family, or simply rest.
Home Sweet Home Care
Need a Little Extra Help at Home?
Care that comes from the heart. ♥
Home Sweet Home Care provides non-medical support designed to help older adults remain safe, comfortable, and independent in their own homes.
Non-Hands-On Support
Companion Care
- Meal preparation
- Light housekeeping
- Laundry
- Errands
- Transportation
- Medication reminders
- Socialization and companionship
- General safety oversight
Hands-On Assistance
Personal Care
- Bathing
- Dressing
- Toileting
- Personal hygiene
- Mobility and transfers
- Incontinence care
- Assistance with eating as needed
If you are unsure what type of help may be appropriate, we are happy to answer questions and explain the options.
Caring for our community goes beyond care in the home. ♥
Community • Connection • Family
Helpful Information Can Make Aging at Home a Little Easier
We hope this month’s guide gives seniors, caregivers, and families information they can actually use — whether that means making the home safer, finding ways to save, staying connected, or knowing when to ask for a little extra help.
Save This Guide & Share It With Someone You Love
Please feel free to share, print, email, or save this guide for a senior, caregiver, family member, neighbor, or friend.
New community resources are shared each month in the Home Sweet Home Care Senior Resource Guide.
Home Sweet Home Care, Inc. Care that comes from the heart.
