Department of Family Services

CONTACT INFORMATION: Monday–Friday 8 a.m.–4:30 p.m.
703-324-7500 TTY 711
12011 Government Center Parkway, Pennino Building
Fairfax, VA 22035
Michael A. Becketts
Director

Top 5 Reasons to Work with the Fairfax County Adult and Aging Division

(Posted 2023 February)

four older adults hugging outside The Department of Family Services (DFS) Adult and Aging Division plays a vital role in supporting older adults, family caregivers, and people with disabilities in Fairfax County, and the cities of Fairfax and Falls Church. We offer services, programs, and resources to help individuals live safe, healthy, and fulfilling lives.  

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, an estimated 13.5 percent of residents in Fairfax County are 65 years old or older, and that number is projected to grow to 17.7 percent by 2035. With a growing older adult population, Fairfax County, City of Fairfax and the City of Falls Church are working together to ensure we have resources, programs and staff to support our older adult community.   

Our dedicated team of professionals works with older adults, family caregivers, and people with disabilities to make a positive impact on their lives. We are compassionate and understanding. We partner with individuals to help them find the support and resources they need to live a full life. 

Working with an older population and with adults with disabilities is rewarding. The challenges that arise only make our work more meaningful when we can help an individual or family be safe, self-sufficient, or improve their quality of life. 

Do you want to be a part of making a positive impact in our community? Below are the top 5 reasons to work with us in Adult and Aging. 

1. We Are Driven to Support Others

hands embracingThere is great reward in seeing the direct impact of your work on the lives of people you touch. Every day our team is focused on helping individuals live safe, healthy, and more independent lives. Adult and Aging programs maximize safety and independence, as well as family and social supports, with an emphasis on community education and volunteer resources.

Our family caregiver support unit offers webinars, workshops and panel discussions throughout the year to help people who are providing care for loved ones. Education is provided on a wide range of topics from physical and mental health challenges, legal and financial updates, nutrition, Medicare, and much more.

The Aging, Disability, and Caregiver Resources telephone line (703–324–7948, TTY 711) is a popular resource manned by professional staff who have a passion for helping others. Our team coordinates requests to perform assessments, identify services and supports, and ensure that each individual receives what they need. We are focused every day on helping to improve the lives of those we serve.

Protecting and helping the most vulnerable in our community is one of our priorities. Adult and Aging staff receive and investigate reports of abuse, neglect or exploitation of older adults and incapacitated adults. We assess an individual to determine if they need protective services to be safe and make recommendations on what services they need to help them continue to live in their own homes.

Check out this video to learn more about the work we do in the Adult and Aging Division.  

2. We Are SHAPING the Future of Aging

SHAPING the Future of AgingBe a part of making Fairfax County a better place to age, for older adults to live safely, independently, and with dignity. SHAPE the Future of Aging is a strategic plan for older adult services. It is aligned with the Fairfax County Strategic Plan and One Fairfax to address the future needs of older adults. The SHAPE the Future of Aging plan is an acronym that includes five areas of focus:

  • Services for Older Adults and Family Caregivers
  • Housing and Neighborhood Supports
  • Access to Mobility Options
  • Personal Well-Being
  • Economic Stability and Planning
3. We Are Supporting Professional Growth

man working at computerThe Department of Family Services is greatly committed to the professional development of staff. The HR Professional Development and Training Team includes dedicated staff and in-house clinical training offerings in support of clinical licensure requirements and overall professional development for staff seeking to increase their clinical practice capabilities. Supervisors within the department have access to additional training to support them in their learning as leaders, including access to the renowned Franklin Covey Leadership content. In addition, Fairfax County offers an entire suite of continuous learning opportunities, several networking groups, and tuition assistance. 

4. We Are Hiring Dedicated and Committed Employees 

women-sitting-on-couch-drinking-coffeeThe Adult and Aging team of dedicated professionals is a community of people who care about their work and each other. The empathy and encouragement that staff experience in the division is unparalleled. 

Recently, DFS installed new DFS CARES rooms in each agency building as spaces for staff to retreat, rest, and regroup for a short while when needed. Staff are encouraged to use the paths around the campus to engage with nature for a break to reset themselves. Taking time to revitalize during the week is important to the work we do. Wellness workshops and other offerings for staff encourage life-long choices that promote a holistic approach to their physical, mental, emotional, social, spiritual, and financial wellbeing.

5. We Are Achieving Work Life Balance

woman sitting on floor meditating The Department of Family Services is a great place to achieve a balance between work and home life. Whether you are single with an active life, juggling family commitments, or you are a caregiver yourself, our policies and practices allow for some alternatives to the standard work week. 

Hybrid telework schedules can be a relief for many employees. Being able to use the flexibility to accommodate demands in your personal life is a benefit for everyone. 

In addition, the county is generous with leave for vacations, sick and personal days, holidays, and other options. We offer health care and retirement benefits including a pension plan and an optional deferred compensation plan. Learn more about county benefits.


If you have the dedication and commitment necessary to work with older adults, adults with disabilities and family caregivers and want to help them as they navigate their journey, we encourage you to apply today


This posting is part of the Department of Family Services' Community Corner where you’ll find timely information about upcoming events, parenting and wellness tips, programs and services, and more! Share these helpful posts with your friends and family. Don't miss out on future postings! Sign up today!

For media inquiries, contact Department of Family Services' Public Information Officer Amy Carlini by email, office phone 703-324-7758 or mobile phone 571-355-6672.

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