(Posted 2026 July)
The Fairfax Area Agency on Aging (AAA) was honored by USAging as a runner-up for The John A. Hartford Foundation 2026 Business Innovation Award, which honors community-based organization–health care entity contracts and partnerships that improve health outcomes and quality of life for older adults, people with disabilities and caregivers.
The Fairfax AAA was recognized for its extraordinary 36-year partnership with Inova Health Systems through the ElderLink program, which serves as a joint think tank that tests and expands programs that promote well-being, safety, independence and social connection for older adults. The ElderLink program addresses social connection through multiple evidence-based health and wellness workshops, caregiver programs and virtual reality simulations that have reached more than 3,000 older adults, people with disabilities and caregivers over the past five years.
ElderLink’s free caregiver support programs include caregiver consultations, caregiver virtual support calls, a training opportunity called Exploring the Dimensions of Aging through Virtual Reality, volunteer respite, and more. ElderLink also provides affordable case management to older adults in Fairfax County and the Cities of Falls Church & Fairfax. Care managers work with families to find the best plan to ensure safe and affordable independence. For more information or to request a service, please call the ElderLink Intake Line at: 703-324-5374, TTY 711.
“We are thrilled to congratulate the FAAA for being a runner-up for The John A. Hartford Foundation 2026 Business Innovation Award," said USAging CEO Sandy Markwood. "By cultivating meaningful partnerships focused on accessible resources and support along with a shared commitment to lasting impact, they are building healthier, stronger communities where older adults can thrive."
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