Celebrating Older Americans Month Through Meaningful Connections

May is Older Americans Month, a time to recognize older adults, residents age 65 and older, for their contributions, support their independence, and recognize their unparalleled value to our community. This year’s theme is “Powered by Connection,” which focuses on the profound impact that meaningful connections have on the well-being and health of our older adults.  

The Virginia Beach Department of Human Services (DHS) reaffirms its mandate to serve our older residents in acknowledgement of Older Americans Month. One of the ways that DHS supports our elder population is by investigating allegations of elder abuse, neglect and exploitation. 

In 2023, Virginia Beach Adult Protective Services (APS) received 2,320 reported allegations, the third-highest number of APS reports in the state. Of those reports, 643 were determined to be credible with evidence of abuse, neglect and/or exploitation.  

Similar programs throughout Virginia protect older and incapacitated adults from abuse. These programs include Adult Protective Services (APS), Adult Foster Care (AFC), Long Term Services Support (LTSS) and Companion and Guardianship.   

Throughout May, DHS Adult and Aging Services division will make “meaningful connections” by engaging with the community and presenting resources to help spread awareness. Yard signs highlighting Older Americans Month were placed at various locations including City Hall and Human Services buildings. 

Adult and Aging Services staff will be present at Virginia Beach recreation centers and libraries with resources and information on available services for older residents the following dates and times: 

• May 20, 1-3 p.m., Bayside Area Library  
• May 22, 10 a.m. to noon, Princess Anne Area Library  
• May 29, 9 a.m. to noon, Senior Showcase at Princess Anne Recreation Center
• June 5, 11 a.m. to noon, Forever Young Senior Center at Bayside Recreation Center  
• June 11, 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Kempsville Area Library  
• June 12, 10 a.m. to noon, Meyera E. Oberndorf Central Library  
• June 27, 9 a.m. to noon, Joint-Use Library 

For more information on programs and resources available from the Virginia Beach Department of Human Services, visit hs.virginiabeach.gov.