Article by the Adult & Aging Division, Department of Family Services
(Posted 2026 November)
Every November, we recognize National Family Caregivers Month and honor the individuals who care for, and support loved ones who are aging, ill, or living with disabilities. Family caregivers play a vital role in our communities, often balancing jobs, family responsibilities, and personal commitments while providing daily comfort and care. This month recognizes their dedication, raising awareness about the challenges they face, and connecting them with the resources, support, and appreciation they truly deserve.
Many people in our community are family caregivers. In Virginia, nearly one in five adults serve as unpaid caregivers to an adult with health or functional needs. Over half of these caregivers (64 percent) hold down jobs while also caring for their loved ones. Although time commitments vary, 18 percent of caregivers report that they spend over 40 hours each week providing care. “Sandwich Generation” caregivers are especially busy, balancing caring for their aging relatives while also raising children.
Serving as a caregiver can be a positive experience, providing a strong sense of purpose, greater emotional resilience, and increased empathy. However, without proper support the demands of caregiving can lead to stress, social isolation, and burnout, so caregivers need to be aware of these risks and seek help if needed. Help can take many forms but may include joining a support group, seeking respite (short breaks from their caregiving duties), and connecting to resources that benefit them physically and emotionally.
If you are seeking family caregiver resources, check out the Virginia Department for Aging and Rehabilitative Services (DARS)’s Taking Care: A Resource Guide for Caregivers. This guide provides practical assistance, emotional support, and valuable information to help caregivers maintain their health and well-being while fulfilling their caregiving responsibilities.
The Fairfax Area Agency on Aging offers many resources to support older adults, adults with disabilities, and family caregivers. Learn more by calling our Aging, Disability, and Caregiver Resource Line at 703-324-7948 or visiting FairfaxCounty.gov/OlderAdults.
Resources in Fairfax County
- Family Caregiver Support Programs includes free caregiver webinars, dementia resources, support services and respite, caregiver videos, a newsletter and caregiver alerts.
- Caregiver Support Programs offered by ElderLink include caregiver consultations, virtual support calls, caregiver training, and a respite support program staffed by trained volunteers. For more information, call the ElderLink Intake Line at 703-324-5374, TTY 711.
- Adult Day Health Care is a daytime program designed for older adults and adults with physical, cognitive, or intellectual disabilities who need support and supervision during the day. This program benefits participants while also providing respite support for their caregivers.
- Insight Memory Care Center offers caregiver support groups, consultations, and opportunities to connect with other families affected by a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease, dementia or memory impairment.
Upcoming Learning Opportunities
Different Dementias and Innovative Caregiving
Friday, Nov. 6, 12–1 p.m.
Virtual Webinar Hosted by the Fairfax Area Agency on Aging
Alzheimer’s disease is the leading cause of dementia, but it is not the only one. Join George Worthington, Dementia Services Director for Virginia’s Department for Aging and Rehabilitative Services (DARS), as he presents on the other major diseases that cause dementia including vascular dementia, Lewy Body dementia, and frontotemporal dementia. Attendees will broaden their dementia understanding and learn about innovative ways to provide care for people living with dementia. This session will build on the communication tips and strategies learned in the previous session. Register online or call 571-407-6961.
40th Annual Caregiver’s Conference
Saturday, Nov. 14, 8:30 a.m.–4:10 p.m.
In-Person Conference at Inova Conference Center (8100 Innovation Park Dr., Fairfax)
On November 14, the Northern Virginia Dementia Caregivers Consortium is having their annual conference for caregivers of persons with dementia. Join them for a day full of connection, learning, and support. Whether you're new to caregiving or a seasoned pro, this event is designed to give you practical tips for navigating the challenges of dementia care and a friendly community to engage with. Don’t miss out on this chance to recharge and gain valuable insights! Learn more.
Paying for Care Without Overpaying the IRS
Wednesday, Nov. 18, 12–1 p.m.
Virtual Webinar Hosted by the Fairfax Area Agency on Aging
Explore how long-term care can rewrite your tax strategy. In this webinar, Tom West, a Senior Partner in SEIA’s Virginia office, will discuss how to avoid costly financial mistakes and create a tax-savvy retirement by preparing for the realities of life. Learn about the key decisions you need to make before you retire, especially where tax, healthcare, legal, and financial issues intersect. Explore practical tips for the “Sandwich Generation” on balancing retirement savings with the needs of children and aging parents. Explore smart tax planning “before life happens,” such as coordinating retirement withdrawals, estate documents, beneficiary designations, and family financial support to reduce surprises. Learn how to build a tax-efficient retirement and legacy plan by aligning retirement income, estate planning, charitable giving, and long-term care strategies to help preserve your wealth. Register online or call 571-407-6961.
Supporting a Loved One Living with Dementia: Resources for Family Caregivers
Friday, Nov. 20, 12–1 p.m.
Virtual Webinar Hosted by the Fairfax Area Agency on Aging
Panelists will provide an overview of local resources—including classes, support groups, respite programs, and consultation services—specifically tailored to dementia caregivers and their loved ones. Attendees will learn how to connect with community-based services, navigate available programs, and identify which options fit their family’s needs. The discussion will highlight how available resources can help caregivers feel less isolated, more informed, and better supported as they care for a loved one with dementia. Register online or call 571-407-6961.
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).