Department of Family Services – Older Adults

CONTACT INFORMATION: Monday–Friday 8 a.m.–4:30 p.m.
703-324-7948 TTY 711
12011 Government Center Parkway, Suite 708
Fairfax, VA 22035
Trina Mayhan-Webb
Director

Department Resources

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Advance Care Planning

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Welcome to our Advanced Care Planning Resource Hub!

older couple looking at each otherThis valuable resource has been developed to assist residents in the Fairfax area with their Advanced Care Planning needs. We have collaborated closely with the Fairfax County Department of Family Services’ Adult and Aging Division, as well as the Initiative Development Committee of the SHAPE the Future of Aging Plan.

The SHAPE the Future of Aging Plan is a strategic initiative aimed at enhancing Fairfax County, ensuring it is a place where older adults can live safely, independently, and with dignity. Our committee comprises dedicated community leaders, organizations, and county government agencies, all committed to supporting older adults. By working together, we strive to create a thriving community for everyone in Fairfax.

Explore our resources today and take the next step in securing your future and well-being.

POLST

POLST stands for Physicians Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment. This program helps people with serious health problems write down their healthcare wishes so doctors know what they want. It makes sure their choices are respected no matter where they are treated.

www.polst.org/programs-in-your-state

Providing Care and Comfort at the End of Life

This guide from the National Institute on Aging gives advice on how to care for someone who is dying. It focuses on being kind, making them comfortable, and supporting their emotional needs.

www.nia.nih.gov/health/end-life/providing-care-andcomfort-end-life

10 End-of-Life Documents and FAQs Everyone Should Have

This guide from Senior Services of America explains the important documents you need to plan for the end of life. It answers common questions to help you understand what you need to do.

www.seniorservicesofamerica.com/blog/10-end-of-lifedocuments-everyone-should-have/

Resources | NHPCO

The National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization (NHPCO) offers a collection of resources called CaringInfo. These resources help patients and families dealing with serious illnesses and making end-of-life care decisions.


www.nhpco.org/patients-and-caregivers/

Aging with Dignity

Learn about “Five Wishes,” a well-known advance directive that helps people express their care preferences in a personal and meaningful way. This ensures their values and wishes are respected.

www.fivewishes.org/

The Conversation Project

The Conversation Project is all about encouraging open talks about end-of-life care. It provides tools and resources to help people and families discuss their healthcare preferences.

http://theconversationproject.org/

Addressing Disparities in End-of-Life Care | Crossroads Hospice

This article looks at the difficulties faced by marginalized communities in getting fair end-of-life care. It also suggests ways to promote inclusion and understanding.

www.crossroadshospice.com/hospice-palliative-careblog/2022/february/23/how-to-reduce-disparities-inhospice-care/

Empowering the Patient in Making End-of-Life Decisions | Crossroads Hospice

This resource focuses on patient independence. It highlights the importance of education and communication to help people make informed choices about their end-of-life care.

www.crossroadshospice.com/hospice-resources/education-for-families/empowering-the-patient-inmaking-end-of-life-decisions/

Hospice Transitioning: From Hospital to Home | Crossroads Hospice

This guide helps patients and families move from hospital care to hospice care at home. It offers practical advice for navigating this important stage.

www.crossroadshospice.com/hospice-resources/education-for-families/hospice-transitioning-fromhospital-to-home/

CaringInfo: Resources for Serious Illness & End-of Life Care

CaringInfo, a program by the National Alliance for Care at Home, offers free resources to help patients and caregivers make informed decisions about serious illness and end-of-life care.

www.caringinfo.org/

Caregiving Information on Advance Directives | CaringInfo

This CaringInfo page focuses on caregiver resources specifically related to advance directives. The CaringInfo webisite also offers a range of resources for caregivers, including government and private organization links to help navigate caregiving challenges.

www.caringinfo.org/planning/advance-directives/

Providing Care and Comfort at the End of Life | National Institute on Aging

This resource offers guidance on how to support someone who is dying. It emphasizes kind care, physical comfort, and emotional well-being.

www.nia.nih.gov/health/end-life/providing-care-andcomfort-end-life

Advance Care Planning Resource Guide

Your Fairfax, Your FutureDownload our Advance Care Planning Resource Guide to share with friends and family.


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