Ensuring High Quality of Life for Older Adults in Virginia Beach

Each May, Virginia Beach’s Department of Human Services (DHS) reaffirms its commitment to serving older adults by celebrating Older Americans Month. Did you know that DHS has an Adult and Aging team dedicated to the safety and wellbeing of older adults in our community?

The team, part of DHS’ social services division, provides programs for adults who are aged 60 and over, or between the ages of 18-59 and incapacitated, to protect them from harm, assist when necessary and maximize self-sufficiency. In observance of Older Americans Month, here’s an overview of three of these important programs serving Virginia Beach residents: 

Adult Foster Care 

DHS’ Adult & Aging team connects adults who need help with activities of daily living with residents who want to provide them with loving care and supervision. The team provides support and guidance, ensuring a comfortable home environment for all parties. For a glimpse at the impacts of Adult Foster Care in Virginia Beach, view a short video of Summer’s story.   

DHS has a pressing need for adult foster care providers. If you have space in your heart and home to help an adult in need, please call 757-385-3550. 

Adult Protective Services

DHS’ Adult & Aging team investigates allegations and minimizes risks of abuse, neglect and exploitation of older or incapacitated adults. Staff may arrange for home-based care, transportation, meal service and other activities as needed. For more details or to make a report, call 757-385-3550.

Long-Term Services and Support 

DHS staff screen individuals with long-term care Medicaid who would like to be screened for personal in-home care, nursing facility placement, or Program of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE), to assess whether they meet the functional criteria for the service. If you would like to request a screening for yourself or a loved one, contact 757-385-3550.   

During Older Americans Month in May — and year-round — DHS’ Adult & Aging team engages with the community, connecting with residents and presenting information about available services. For information about these and other DHS programs for adults, visit DHS’ Adult and Aging Services website, or call 757-385-3550. 

• Adult & Aging Services