We were recently named one of the Top 100 Places to Live for Older Adults (coming in at #5 for big cities) by AARP, a national nonprofit that empowers people to choose how they live as they age. A major reason why Fairfax County was included on AARP’s list is the wide array of services the county provides for older adults, adults with disabilities and family caregivers of older adults.
As the aging population grows and needs change, we must plan to meet those changing needs. The Board of Supervisors adopted SHAPE the Future of Aging, a five-year strategic plan to make Fairfax County a better place for older adults to live safely, independently and with dignity.
Video: Meeting the changing needs of older adults
If you or a loved one wants to learn more about these services and programs, call the Aging, Disability and Caregiver Resources Line at 703-324-7948, TTY 711, Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. If eligible, services may include care management, home delivered meals, home repairs, in-home care, transportation services and more.
Additional Programs and Services
Family Caregiver Support provides support and resources for people caring for older adults. Many of these resources are free and include:
- Educational webinars and workshops on a variety of topics (offered in English and Spanish).
- Resources for people caring for a loved one with dementia.
- Caregiver services such as social work consultations and respite care.
Disability Rights and Resources connects adults living with a disability to resources in our community, including:
- Assistive technology and devices that help people with disabilities maintain their independence.
- Employment resources to find and maintain competitive and integrated employment.
- Housing resources to find housing, maintain your home, make home modifications, know your rights and more.
- Transportation resources, including public transportation, paratransit, subsidized taxis, travel training and driving.
The Northern Virginia Long-Term Care Ombudsman serves residents of the City of Alexandria, Fairfax County, Arlington County and Loudoun County. Their work includes:
- Advocating for improving the quality of life for people receiving long-term care services.
- Resolving complaints against long-term care providers.
- Providing information about long-term care providers to help consumers make an informed decision.
- Educating the community about long-term care issues.
Keeping Older Adults Safe
Adult Protective Services protects older adults and incapacitated adults in our community. In addition to investigating reports of abuse, neglect or exploitation, APS helps older and incapacitated adults continue to live in their homes, become self-sufficient and find appropriate placements in nursing homes or other institutions when necessary.
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