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Fairfax County is marking Older Americans Month in May by expanding programs designed for a more active, connected and mobile older population.
The annual observance began in 1963. This year’s theme, “Flip the Script on Aging,” reflects the county’s year-round effort to reshape services through its SHAPE the Future of Aging Plan.
Residents age 50 and older can join the county’s senior centers for fitness, art, music, technology, hobbies and social activities. Meal and transportation options are available, although eligibility requirements and fees may apply.
The Virtual Center for Active Adults offers live, interactive activities for older adults and adults with disabilities across Northern Virginia. Prerecorded programs are also available on demand, giving participants another way to connect and access resources while reducing isolation.
For people with cognitive or physical limitations, Adult Day Health Care provides daytime mental, physical and social activities. The program has served thousands of older adults during its more than 35-year history. Transportation, scholarships and a sliding fee scale are available.
Older residents can also volunteer through county programs, including GrandInvolve, which places older adults in Title I schools to help support young students’ learning.
The county recently opened Arbor Row Center inside The Mather residential building in Tysons. The new senior center offers programs focused on learning, fitness, technology and group discussions.
Another facility, the Burke-Springfield Center for Active Adults, is expected to open at Huntsman Square in Springfield. County officials held community sessions to learn which programs residents age 50 and older want at the center, which will replace the Burke-Springfield Center Without Walls.