September is National Senior Center Month, and the Department of Neighborhood and Community Services is celebrating our 14 Fairfax County Senior Centers, which cater to adults ages 50 and over.
According to the National Council on Aging, “The 10,000 senior centers in communities and neighborhoods across the country provide access to information, opportunities, and support to improve the lives of people in their communities as they age.” The 2022 theme for National Senior Center Month is Strengthening Community Connections, addressing the role of senior centers in combating social isolation.
In Fairfax County, members visit senior centers to pursue hobbies, fitness goals, special interests (such as art, music and technology), friendships and enjoy a wide variety of activities with their peers. Center programs and activities are as diverse as the needs and interests of the communities they serve and include everything from quilting to Tai Chi.
Fairfax County Senior Centers offer a popular Congregate Meal Program, which provides prepared lunches for participants and guests. Reservations must be made at least one day in advance at the center where you want to be served. There is a cost for lunch for all guests and participants ages 50 to 59, and a suggested meal donation for participants ages 60 and over.
Senior centers also offer transportation options for older adults through Fastran. Service is arranged through the centers directly and may include a fee.
The upcoming months are an especially exciting time to join a senior center, with the holiday season offering plenty of festive events to bring communities together. Membership in Fairfax County Senior Centers is open to those 50 years of age who meet eligibility requirements and have paid their annual membership dues, which range from $24 to $48 annually based on household income.
To learn more about Fairfax County Senior Centers and find the location nearest you, visit the NCS website. If you’d rather participate in senior center events virtually, check out the Virtual Center for Active Adults.