Inova ElderLink offers free classes, in‑home supports and caregiver resources in Fairfax County

Inova ElderLink, a nonprofit partnership of Inova and the Fairfax County Area Agency on Aging, provides a mix of free workshops, in‑home services and caregiver supports for Fairfax County residents, host Fran Guastidissenge said during the Mature Living broadcast.

Delma Thompson, a social work case manager with Inova ElderLink, said the program has operated for “a little over 30 years” and offers evidence‑based classes such as Matter of Balance to reduce falls, improve mobility and build strength. Thompson described a recreation-focused variant called “Bingo size” and a virtual mobility offering for participants who prefer remote options. “People get a chance to learn about preventing falls, increase mobility, and build strength,” Thompson said.

Thompson provided practical access information: an intake line at (703) 324-5374 with social‑worker follow-up during business hours and an option to leave an after‑hours message; listeners can also register on the Inova website under ElderLink or via the Fairfax County Department of Family Services older adults pages. Thompson said most wellness workshops and virtual programs are free; in‑home services may require a co‑pay but a sliding‑scale fee is available. The program also offers private, one‑on‑one case management at a flat rate and no income criteria.

On in‑home supports, Thompson outlined a bathing assistance program and a respite service that can provide up to six hours of supervised in‑home care so caregivers can run errands or rest. A virtual caregiver support call meets every second Tuesday of the month and typically features a scheduled speaker and an educational component.

The segment included listener testimony about the classes’ effects. An unidentified participant who had fallen twice in recent years described increased awareness, strength and confidence after attending a balance class: “The exercises that we've been doing have been wonderful ... I feel stronger. I feel more in balance,” the participant said, crediting the Golden Gazette notice for making the class accessible.

Thompson said services can continue “as long as you meet criteria,” adding that ElderLink receives referrals and some funding through its county partnership that enable service delivery across Fairfax County. For caregivers and older adults seeking help, Thompson emphasized the free consultation as a starting point to explore individualized supports.

The program’s mix of evidence‑based group classes, in‑home assistance and both informal and structured supports aims to reduce risk, improve independence and relieve caregiver stress. Thompson urged interested listeners to call or visit the online registration pages to learn about schedules and eligibility.

The Mature Living segment closed with a preview of the program’s technology pilot and further participant stories later in the show.