May is National Older Americans month. Established in 1963 and led by the Administration for Community Living (ACL), OAM is a time to acknowledge the contributions and achievements of older Americans, highlight important trends, and strengthen the commitment to honoring our older citizens.
This year’s theme, Aging Unbound, offers an opportunity to explore a wide range of aging experiences and to promote the importance of enjoying independence and fulfillment by paving our own paths as we age.
Fairfax County Neighborhood and Community Services is proud of its commitment to the well-being of older Americans. NCS has many programs and services that are dedicated year-round to improving the lives of residents, and indeed, aiding aging unbound.
Some of NCS' most vital resources:
NCS Senior Centers
Fairfax Senior Centers are recreation centers for adults ages 50 and over. Hundreds of active older adults from around the county have become registered members of the county’s network of senior centers to pursue hobbies, fitness, 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.
Meals and transportation options are also available (eligibility and fees apply – please contact the Senior Center near you for details).
NCS also has the Senior Centers Without Walls serving residents in Burke/West Springfield and Great Falls.
VCAA
The goal of the Virtual Center for Active Adults is to enrich the lives of older adults and adults with disabilities in Northern Virginia while combatting isolation. Here you can connect with your peers, engage in a variety of activities, and discover useful resources.
Join live, interactive programs and engage with other adults. You can also watch prerecorded programs on demand on your own schedule.
Adult Day Health Care
We believe that everyone has the opportunity to live a great life, despite their cognitive or physical limitations. That’s why our Adult Day Health Care (ADHC) program is focused on engaging participants mentally, physically and socially. The results include better sleep, increased engagement, and an overall better mood — for both participants and their caregivers. Learn more about our daily programs and activities and our highly skilled and experienced staff.
In its 35+ year history, ADHC has brought thousands of older adults daytime care and support. There is a sliding fee scale, scholarship program, and transportation is available. Learn more about the Adult Day Health Care program.
Transportation Options
Neighborhood and Community Services provides transportation services and resources for older adults, individuals with limited income, individuals with disabilities and individuals accessing Fairfax County Human Services who need transportation assistance.
FastTran, which offers specialized transportation services for residents of Fairfax County and the cities of Fairfax and Falls Church participating in human services programs.
TOPS, the Transportation, Programs and Services (TOPS) program that provides subsidies for various transportation options via a transportation debit card.
For more transportation options, visit the Human Services Transportation Services page.
NCS is also a great place for senior volunteers. Read more about volunteer opportunities. For more information on all NCS programs and services for Older Adults, please visit Programs and Services for Older Adults.