Many families face a tough question: Where can my loved one go during the day if they need supervision and care? Fairfax County has an answer through its Adult Day Health Care program.
Marjorie Burris, Adult Day Health Care program manager with the Department of Neighborhood and Community Services, recently appeared on the “County Conversation” podcast to explain how the program helps families.
The program runs four centers across the county. These centers provide a safe place for adults 18 and older who have cognitive and physical challenges that require daytime supervision.
What Makes This Program Different
Adult day health care centers are different than senior centers. Senior centers serve people 50 years and older who can come and go on their own. Adult Day Health Care serves people who need support with daily tasks like eating, taking medication or using the bathroom.
Fairfax County has four adult day health care center locations:
- Lewinsville Adult Day Health Care Center in McLean. This center is connected to the Lewinsville Senior Center.
- Herndon Harbor Adult Day Health Care in Herndon. This center is also connected to a senior center.
- Lincolnia Adult Day Health Care Center in the Alexandria area of the county
- Mount Vernon Adult Day Health Care Center in the Alexandria area of the county
Each center maintains a 6-1 ratio of participants to staff members. The Virginia Department of Social Services checks the centers regularly to ensure they follow all rules and regulations.
The centers have a registered nurse who runs the operation and a licensed practical nurse who handles day-to-day health monitoring. A recreational therapist plans activities based on each person’s background and abilities.
“Our program assistants have a big responsibility, and a lot of our caregivers know them by name,” Burris said.
A Typical Day
Centers open at 7 a.m. Breakfast runs from 9 to 10 a.m., and the main programs happen between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.
Activities vary based on what participants can do and enjoy, such as playing bingo, practicing tai chi or participating in light exercise. Music programs like “Name That Tune” are popular. Most activities last 15 to 20 minutes.
Participant care and engagement is also individualized. Staff members learn what each person did before they developed cognitive problems. For example, one woman who worked as a military secretary files papers. It's a task that keeps her calm during difficult moments.
“The program provides a safe and nurturing environment for the participant and peace of mind for the caregiver, who provides us the privilege of caring for their loved ones when they have other things to do during the day.”
Getting Started
Families who want to learn more can visit any center between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. for a tour. The admission process takes about two hours. Nurses complete a 12-point assessment to understand medical needs, while a recreational therapist asks about the person’s history and favorite activities.
The program offers monthly support groups for caregivers, and staff members stay in close contact with families throughout the day.
Fees are on a sliding scale with daily rates ranging from $19 to $145 depending on income. The program accepts Medicaid waivers.
More Information
Learn more about the county's services for older adults or the Adult Day Health Care program. For more information, call the Aging, Disabilities and Caregiver Resources Line at 703–324–7948, TTY 711; send an email to adultday@fairfaxcounty.gov.
The County Conversation Podcast
The “County Conversation” is a podcast featuring employees and subject matter experts from the Fairfax County Government discussing programs, services and items of interest to residents of Fairfax County. Listen to past episodes of “County Conversation.” Discover more county podcasts.
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