Article by Karen Goff, Neighborhood and Community Services
(Posted 2025 October)
Fairfax County Neighborhood and Community Services is proud to offer four Adult Day Health Centers (ADHC), where persons with cognitive or physical impairments can have safe and engaging experiences – and caregivers can have peace of mind. We asked ADHC Program Manager Marjorie Burris, DNP, MSN, RN, a few questions about the program, its mission and its impact.
What is ADHC?
ADHC is an accredited, supportive program for individuals 18 and older who may require enhanced supervision because of conditions such as dementia, Parkinson’s Disease, Alzheimer’s Disease or other cognitive and physical impairments. Our program allows them to live their best life through engagement, conversation and interactive activities. We empower our participants to embrace their differences and enjoy daily socialization and activities to improve their overall health.
What do participants do at ADHC?
Our dedicated and highly skilled team creates a warm and engaging environment for participants, offering supervision and support through a variety of enriching activities. Some of our activities include physical exercise, creative arts and crafts, exciting day trips and heartwarming visits from groups like Pets on Wheels. We provide a wide variety of opportunities for connection, joy and fulfillment.
How can participating in ADHC benefit the caregivers and other family members?
ADHC offers support for the whole family. We recognize that caregiving for an older adult with dementia or other impairments is very stressful. Enrolling that adult in ADHC gives caregivers a break, and participants are stimulated by our environment, interaction and activities. This aids in improved sleep and overall health. We also offer monthly caregiver groups.
What are the qualifications for enrollment?
Participants much be:
- Age 18 or older
- Require supervision due to Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, or another cognitive or physical challenge.
- Be able to transfer with the help of no more than one person.
- Be able to feed themselves independently.
Where is ADHC located?
We have four ADHC locations, so we are convenient to all corners of the county. All locations are open Monday- Friday, 7 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Transportation and sliding fee scale are available.
- Herndon Harbor, 875 Grace St., Herndon. 703-435-8729, TTY 711.
- Lewinsville, 1611 Great Falls St., McLean. 703-914-1372, TTY 711.
- Lincolnia, 4710 N. Chambliss St., Alexandria. 703-914-1372, TTY 711.
- Mount Vernon, 8350 Richmond Hwy. Suite 137, Alexandria. 703-704-605, TTY 711.
How can I learn more?
Interested families can learn more by visiting FairfaxCounty.gov/neighborhood-community-services/adult-day-health-care or calling one of the centers listed. They can also email adultday@fairfaxcounty.gov.
This article is part of the Golden Gazette monthly newsletter which covers a variety of topics and community news concerning older adults and caregivers in Fairfax County. Are you new to the Golden Gazette? Don’t miss out on future newsletters! Subscribe to get the electronic or free printed version mailed to you. Have a suggestion for a topic? Share it in an email or call 703-324-GOLD (4653).