Article by Gwen Jones, Department of Family Services
(Posted 2025 December)
As the end of 2025 draws near, you may already be looking forward to the new year – making resolutions to try new activities, make new friends, and learn something new. Studies have shown that lifelong learning can help lower the risk of dementia by keeping your brain active and engaged. In Fairfax, older adults are fortunate to have many choices when it comes to learning opportunities. Depending on your level of interest and budget, there is something for everyone.
Continuing Education Organizations for Older Adults
Lifetime Learning Institute of Northern Virginia
The Lifetime Learning Institute of Northern Virginia (LLI/NOVA), affiliated with the Annandale campus of Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA), is a non-profit, member-run organization offering stimulating educational and cultural pursuits to adults age 50 and over.
In addition to classes and forums, members are invited to join special interest groups on topics such as photography, foodies and friends, movies, and books. There are also opportunities to socialize and meet new people at organized events, cultural excursions and more. Because LLI/NOVA is run by volunteers, members are encouraged to help at LLI/NOVA events or serve as an instructor on a subject or special interest. LLI/NOVA’s Winter/Spring 2026 term runs from Jan. 1 to May 31, 2026.
LLI/NOVA is very active in the community. They help NOVA students by awarding annual scholarships, holding clothing drives for students, and donating to the NOVA Student Success Fund and NOVA Student Pantry. They also donate to area food banks and collect toys for disadvantaged children in December.
The annual membership fee of $125 covers the cost of all classes and monthly forums, held at Little River United Church of Christ in Annandale. Additional fees are required for cultural excursions. Members can access discounted tickets to performing arts and entertainment venues in the region, like the George Mason Center for the Arts and Arena Stage. Learn more and apply for membership at llinova.org.
Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at George Mason University
The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at George Mason University (OLLI Mason) provides quality educational, social, and cultural opportunities for those 50 and older. Courses are taught by qualified OLLI Mason members, GMU personnel, and people from the government, foreign embassies, and private industry. OLLI Mason also offers a variety of clubs and interest groups, special events, and excursions to nearby destinations.
OLLI Mason members are eligible for George Mason University privileges which can be accessed by applying for a Mason affiliate account. Privileges include discounts at the bookstore, the Center for the Arts and Eagle Bank Arena. OLLI Mason members are also eligible for a library account and Patriot Perks, which provides discounts at local restaurants and other professional services.
The annual membership fee of $450 includes registration to attend an unlimited number of classes, lectures, and more throughout the year. New members can purchase an annual membership for $300. OLLI Mason’s Winter 2026 term runs from Jan. 20 to Feb. 13, 2026. The Spring 2026 term runs from March 23 to May 15, 2026. Learn more and sign up at olli.gmu.edu.
Senior Centers
City of Fairfax Young at Heart Senior Center
The Young at Heart Senior Center, co-located at the Green Acres Center at 4401 Sideburn Road in Fairfax, offers lunchtime learning, social activities, day trips, and recreational activities for adults 55 and older. Membership is free for residents of the City of Fairfax and $50/year for non-residents. Some activities, like day trips, require an additional fee. To become a member, you must apply in person, show a valid ID and meet all eligibility requirements. For more information, visit fairfaxva.gov/Fun-Facilities/For-Seniors/Young-at-Heart-Senior-Center.
City of Falls Church Senior Center
The City of Falls Church Senior Center offers programs, social activities, recreation programs and trips for adults age 50 and over. Membership is free for City of Falls Church residents and $12 for non-residents. For more information, visit fallschurchva.gov/611/Senior-Center or contact Tracy Browand, Senior Center Director, at tbrowand@fallschurchva.gov or 703-248-5020, TTY 711.
Fairfax County Senior Centers
Fairfax County’s 14 senior centers offer social, educational and enrichment opportunities for adults age 50 and over. Members can pursue hobbies, fitness goals, special interests (such as art, music, and technology), friendships and a wide variety of activities. Fairfax County residents can purchase senior center membership for $75/year. Applicants whose income (single or married) is $59,500 and below may be eligible for a partial or full fee waiver. The fee for non-residents is $150/year. For more information, including center locations, senior center activity calendars, and membership information, visit FairfaxCounty.gov/neighborhood-community-services/senior-centers.
Other Learning Opportunities
Fairfax County Park Authority
Fairfax County Park Authority offers classes and workshops on a wide range of topics. New workshops offered this winter include a floral design workshop – Branches, Blooms & Balance, a Garden Talk – Everything about Orchids, and a culinary event – Tasting Teas from Each Continent.
Fairfax County and Fairfax City residents who are age 65 or older get a 35 percent discount. This applies to all programs available for registration via Parktakes Online except trips and tours, Pilates lessons, GRAVITY Group lessons, INOVA programs, family fees, and classes priced $45 or less.
Registration is now open for Winter 2026, and classes begin Jan. 3, 2026. Spring 2026 registration begins Feb. 24, 2026, and classes begin March 21, 2026. Browse classes and register at FairfaxCounty.gov/parks/parktakes.
Fairfax County Public Library
Fairfax County Public Library hosts events and programs on a variety of topics, including author talks, book clubs, technology workshops, writers’ groups, and much more. Library events are always free to the public; some require registration in advance. Browse events at FairfaxCounty.gov/library/events.
Fairfax County Public School Adult and Community Education
Fairfax County Public School’s Adult and Community Education program (FCPS ACE) offers hundreds of adult enrichment classes, both in-person and online. Classes are offered in the categories of world languages, arts and crafts, culinary arts, digital literacy, literary arts, and wellness.
Tuition discounts of 25% are available for Fairfax County residents who are 65 years of age or older, with some restrictions. The discount must be claimed at time of registration and does not apply to lab, material, and textbook fees. The discount may be used for one class at a time for a total of four classes per year. Learn more about FCPS ACE classes and register online at fcpsace.org.
Mary Riley Styles Public Library
Mary Riley Styles Public Library, located at 120 N. Virginia Ave., in Falls Church, hosts a variety of events for adults, including language conversation groups, book discussions, author talks, and presentations on a variety of topics, including health and wellness, technology, and history. Some events require advanced registration. Learn more at mrspl.org.
Town of Vienna Parks and Recreation – Programs for Adults 55+
The Town of Vienna offers a variety of programs for adults age 55 and older, including classes, day trips, informative lectures, drop-in programs, special events, clubs and associations. Topics include health and fitness, art and games, financial education, and retirement planning. Some programs charge a fee, which is lower for residents of Vienna. You can register online, by mail or fax, or in-person at the Vienna Community Center. Learn more at viennava.gov/Town-Departments/Parks-and-Recreation/Class-and-Program-Information.
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).