Long-Term Care
Virginia is committed to modernizing long-term care services to meet the growing needs of its aging population. With nearly two million Virginians over the age of 60 — and that number expected to rise to 2.2 million by 2030 — the state is taking significant steps to ensure quality care for older adults, particularly in nursing facilities and other long-term care settings.
The Virginia State Plan for Aging Services
As required by the federal Older Americans Act (OAA) and state law, the Virginia Department for Aging and Rehabilitative Services (DARS) is tasked with developing the State Plan for Aging Services, which sets the framework for the Commonwealth’s long-term care initiatives. The plan outlines the following goals:
- GOAL 1: Provide high-quality, innovative core OAA programs.
- GOAL 2: Deliver evidence-based programs that encourage healthy, active, and engaged lives.
- GOAL 3: Promote access to aging and community services for older Virginians with the greatest economic and social needs.
- GOAL 4: Bolster awareness of and increase access to person-centered long-term services and supports (LTSS).
- GOAL 5: Improve access to resources and services that support all caregivers.
The Role of DARS as the State Unit on Aging
DARS plays a crucial role in supporting older adults, individuals with disabilities, and their families by advocating for resources and services that enhance independence, security, and quality of life. As Virginia’s State Unit on Aging (SUA), DARS administers programs funded by OAA, federal grants, and state funding. These programs are delivered through partnerships with 25 local Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs), which provide services tailored to meet the needs of Virginians aged 60 and older, as well as their caregivers.
Through collaboration with community partners, DARS ensures that older adults can live and thrive in the communities of their choice while preparing the Commonwealth for its growing older population.
Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs)
Virginia’s 25 AAAs serve designated Planning and Service Areas (PSAs) that can include a single locality or multiple cities and counties. These agencies are responsible for delivering community-based services, with 14 AAAs operating as private nonprofit organizations, and the remaining 11 functioning as part of local government entities. The AAAs, supported by DARS, ensure that older Virginians have access to a wide range of services, from nutrition programs and transportation assistance to caregiver support and in-home care services.
Find your AAA and learn more about its programs and services
Why Long-Term Care Matters
With Virginia’s aging population expected to account for nearly 19% of the state’s total population by 2030, the modernization of long-term care services is vital to ensuring that all older Virginians, regardless of geographic location, have access to high-quality care and support.
DARS plays a critical role in guiding these initiatives, alongside the AAAs, which provide community-based services tailored to meet the needs of older residents.
By improving quality of life and enhancing service delivery, Virginia’s long-term care initiatives ensure that older adults receive the care they need in a way that respects their independence and personal preferences. These efforts will continue to evolve as the state collaborates with community partners and local agencies to address the diverse needs of its older population.