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It's no secret, most of us would like to stay in our own home as we age. Yet, sometimes our loved ones just need a little extra help to remain comfortable at home. That's where Always Best Care can help....we are dedicated to exceeding expectations....always.

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Home Care In Fairfax Station, VA

Home Care Fairfax Station, VA

They say that your golden years are the best years of your life. For most older Americans, that's how it should be - a time to relax, reflect, and live life in a familiar place. After all, senior citizens in the U.S. have worked tirelessly to build a better economy, serve their communities, and raise families.

Unfortunately, many older Americans aren't able to rely on their adult children for help. The reality in today's world is that family members do not have the skills or time to dedicate to caring for their parents. That's where Always Best Care Senior Services comes in.

Our in-home care services are for people who prefer to stay at home as they grow older but need ongoing care that family or friends cannot provide. More and more older adults prefer to live far away from long-term, institutionalized facilities and closer to the place where they feel most comfortable - their home. Home care in Fairfax Station, VA is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.

 In-Home Care Fairfax Station, VA

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The Always Best Care Difference

Since 1996, Always Best Care has provided non-medical in-home care for seniors to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle as they get older. We are proud to have helped more than 25,000 seniors maintain higher levels of dignity and respect. We focus on providing seniors with the highest level of in-home care available so that they may live happily and independently.

Unlike some senior care companies, we genuinely want to be included in our clients' lives. We believe that personalized care is always the better option over a "one size fits all" approach. To make sure our senior clients receive the best care possible, we pair them with compassionate caregivers who understand their unique needs. That way, they may provide care accordingly without compromising their wellbeing.

The Always Best Care difference lies in life's little moments - where compassionate care and trustworthy experience come together to help seniors live a fruitful, healthy life. Whether you are an aging adult that can't quite keep up with life's daily tasks or the child of a senior who needs regular in-home services, Always Best Care is here to help.

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TESTIMONIALS

“I had a wonderful experience working with their team. And would recommend them to everyone in my circle of friends and family”

Luis
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TESTIMONIALS

“Extremely responsive, professional, and friendly. Nothing but wonderful things to say about the process and people. An evaluation was performed the same day I called about needing the service. They are very sensitive to your needs and follow through to make sure they are met in to the highest degree.”

Lisa A.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Haley and Toan have been an amazing resource to my mother and I, helping us with sitting services for my father in a dementia facility after his return from a hospitalization but they have really gone above and beyond. She has been an amazing resource and really cares about helping people. I am a nurse myself and so impressed with how proactive and helpful she has been, far beyond just sitting services. Very appreciated and much needed. I would absolutely recommend using her and her company to help you and your loved ones.”

Dana P.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Haley and her team are a pleasure to work with! As a partner in the senior care industry, Always Best Care has been known to go above and beyond when it comes to working with, and educating families on options and resources. I am always happy to work with them, knowing they will provide the best care and options for the families they serve!”

Sara K.
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TESTIMONIALS

“My family and I couldn’t be happier with Always Best Care (ABC). From the minute we reached out to Haley, the owner of ABC, we have received excellent service. Haley responded to all of our concerns and has gone above and beyond to be sure our loved one has what is needed. Haley and her team at ABC were able to set up care for our loved one on very short notice. Working with Haley has made a difficult situation much easier to navigate. I would highly recommend Always Best Care. THANK YOU!”

Trish
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TESTIMONIALS

“Very easy to work with and great communication. They go over and above. Would highly recommend!!!”

don H.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I live in MD. I have very close friends who live in PA. The husband was diagnosed with cancer. It was a diagnosis that came out of left field. It left them reeling with every unknown when they were told it had developed and progressed rapidly. I called a friend, who lives in my home state, to ask if she knew of any companies that could not only provide health care services to my PA friends, but be ready to do so without delays. She referred me to Haley Davis with Always Best Care Senior Services. I called as soon as I hung up. I left a voicemail, and received a call from Haley within 10 minutes. Providing as much detail and information as I could, I was assured they would be able to provide different levels of care as they were needed. She also said that I, or any member of my friends’ family, could call her if we needed anything. Today my PA friend said she emailed Always Best Care Senior Services last night. Later today I heard that Haley responded, and services were put into place. The absolute last thing anyone should have to be concerned about when they are emotionally overwhelmed and physically depleted from a devastating disease is dealing with automated phone systems, reaching the correct departments, filing requests in triplicate, and being told they’ll be put on a waiting list. Absolute Best Care Senior Services is just what the name says. They aren’t just able to provide the services that will be needed, they provide the peace of mind that allows their clients to focus on themselves. That’s what caring and compassion are about. I don’t think I could ever express my gratitude. Thank you.”

Carol C.
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TESTIMONIALS

“My mother ended up immobile from a fall that happened Christmas morning. The following day we got in touch with Haley Davis, the owner/president of Always Best. She came to our home (within hours) on her day off. Had rented a wheelchair, reserved transportation to get our mom home, set up a nurse assessment and RN in-home care within 24 hrs! Our family couldn't be more pleased and appreciative of Haley and her team... class act!”

Robert D.
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TESTIMONIALS

“They were able to hook my mother up with home care services as soon as she left rehab. Very flexible with scheduling and hours. Competitive pricing. I would recommend them.”

Michael P.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care Senior Services were our Angels in our time of need after my Mom’s heart surgery. Haley, Erin and Rebecca were all fabulous, super responsive and extremely professional and knowledgeable. We don’t know what we would have done without them. We very highly recommend them!”

cj59 N.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I am currently a Certified Caregiver for Always Best Care. Haley and Gina have been incredible! I love the communication, the dedication and consistency to helping others. Meeting new clients/patients is exciting and gives me purpose! Knowing I can be assistance to help others that need just a bit extra is an amazing feeling! This company is like a family as well as our clients. We treat everyone with the dignity and care that everyone should be entitled to. Despite being employed with the company, I would still offer these services to friends and family! :)”

Erin S.
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TESTIMONIALS

“My experiences with Haley and Gina have been nothing short of spectacular! They are very caring and compassionate. This is is the group that you should consider for any of your loved ones assistance! Highly recommend them!!!”

Steve J.

What is Non-Medical Senior Care in Fairfax Station, VA?

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Home is where the heart is. While that saying can sound a tad cliche, it is especially true for many seniors living in America. When given a choice, older adults most often prefer to grow older at home. An AARP study found that three out of four adults over the age of 50 want to stay in their homes and communities as they age.

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When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.

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The truth is, as we age, we begin to rely on others for help. When a family is too busy or lives too far away to fulfill this role, in-home senior care is often the best solution. Home care services allow seniors to enjoy personal independence while also receiving trustworthy assistance from a trained caregiver.

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At Always Best Care, we offer a comprehensive range of home care services to help seniors stay healthy while they get the help they need to remain independent. As your senior loved one gets older, giving them the gift of senior care is one of the best ways to show your love, even if you live far away.

 Senior Care Fairfax Station, VA

Types of Elderly Care in Fairfax Station, VA

To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home care services:

Personal Care

Personal Care Services

If your senior loved one has specific care needs, our personal care services are a great choice to consider. Personal care includes the standard caregiving duties associated with companion care and includes help with tasks such as dressing and grooming. Personal care can also help individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes.

Common personal care services include assistance with:

  • Eating
  • Mobility Issues
  • Incontinence
  • Bathing
  • Dressing
  • Grooming

Respite Care Fairfax Station, VA
Home Helper

Home Helper Services

Sometimes, seniors need helpful reminders to maintain a high quality of life at home. If you or your senior has trouble with everyday tasks like cooking, our home helper services will be very beneficial.

Common home helper care services include assistance with:

  • Medication Reminders
  • Meal Preparation
  • Pet Care
  • Prescription Refills
  • Morning Wake-Up
  • Walking
  • Reading
 Caregivers Fairfax Station, VA
Companionship Services

Companionship Services

Using this kind of care is a fantastic way to make life easier for you or your senior loved one. At Always Best Care, our talented caregivers often fill the role of a companion for seniors.

Common companionship services include:

  • Grocery Shopping
  • Transportation to Appointments
  • Nutritional Assistance
  • Conversation
  • Planning Outings
  • Completing Errands
  • Transportation to Community
  • Events and Social Outings
Home Care Fairfax Station, VA
Respite Care

Respite Care Services

According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy nearby activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress reduces the risk of caregiver burnout. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.

At the end of the day, our goal is to become a valuable part of your senior's daily routine. That way, we may help give them the highest quality of life possible. We know that staying at home is important for your loved one, and we are here to help make sure that is possible.

If you have been on the fence about non-medical home care, there has never been a better time than now to give your senior the care, assistance, and companionship they deserve.

 In-Home Care Fairfax Station, VA

Benefits of Home Care in Fairfax Station, VA

Always Best Care in-home services are for older adults who prefer to stay at home but need ongoing care that friends and family cannot provide. In-home care is a safe, effective way for seniors to age gracefully in a familiar place and live independent, non-institutionalized lives. The benefits of non-medical home care are numerous. Here are just a few reasons to consider senior care services from Always Best Care:

Always Best Care offers a full array of care options for patients at all levels of health. With our trusted elderly care services, your loved one will receive the level of care necessary for them to enjoy the highest possible quality of life.

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Aging in Place: The Preferred Choice for Most Seniors

While it's true that some seniors have complicated medical needs that prevent them from staying at home, aging in place is often the best arrangement for seniors and their families. With a trusted caregiver, seniors have the opportunity to live with a sense of dignity and do so as they see fit - something that is unavailable to many older people today.

In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a strange nursing home, seniors have the chance to stay at home where they feel the happiest and most comfortable.

Here are just a few of the reasons why older men and women prefer to age at home:

How much does a senior's home truly mean to them?

A study published by the American Society on Aging found that more than half of seniors say their home's emotional value means more than how much their home is worth in monetary value. It stands to reason, then, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old.

With the help of elderly care in Fairfax Station, VA, seniors don't have to age in a sterilized care facility. Instead, they can age gracefully in the place they want to be most: their home. In contrast, seniors who move to a long-term care facility must adapt to new environments, new people, and new systems that the facility implements. At this stage in life, this kind of drastic change can be more harmful than helpful.

Institutional care facilities like nursing homes often put large groups of people together to live in one location. On any given day, dozens of staff members and caregivers run in and out of these facilities. Being around so many new people in a relatively small living environment can be dangerous for a seniors' health and wellbeing. When you consider that thousands of seniors passed away in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, opting for in-home care is often a safer, healthier choice for seniors.

Aging in place has been shown to improve seniors' quality of life, which helps boost physical health and also helps insulate them from viral and bacterial risks found in elderly living facilities.

For many seniors, the ability to live independently with assistance from a caregiver is a priceless option. With in-home care, seniors experience a higher level of independence and freedom - much more so than in other settings like a nursing home. When a senior has the chance to age in place, they get to live life on their own terms, inside the house that they helped make into a home. More independence means more control over their personal lives, too, which leads to increased levels of fulfillment, happiness, and personal gratification. Over time, these positive feelings can manifest into a healthier, longer life.

More independence, a healthier life, and increased comfort are only a few benefits of aging in place. You have to take into consideration the role of cost and convenience. Simply put, it's usually easier and more affordable to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, seniors who age in the comfort of their homes can save thousands of dollars per month.

In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, are often less expensive than long-term solutions, which can cost upwards of six figures per year. To make matters worse, many residential care facilities are reluctant to accept long-term care insurance and other types of payment assistance.

With Always Best Care's home care services, seniors and their families have a greater level of control over their care plans. In-home care gives seniors the chance to form a bond with a trusted caregiver and also receive unmatched care that is catered to their needs. In long-term care facilities, seniors and their loved ones have much less control over their care plan and have less of a say in who provides their care.

 Elderly Care Fairfax Station, VA

Affordable Care

In-home care is a valuable resource that empowers seniors to age in place on their own terms. However, a big concern for many families and their loved ones is how much in-home care costs. If you're worried that in-home care is too expensive, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that it is one of the most affordable senior care arrangements available.

Typically, hiring an Always Best Care in-home caregiver for a few hours a week is more affordable than sending your loved one to a long-term care facility. This is true even for seniors with more complex care needs.

At Always Best Care, we will work closely with you and your family to develop a Care Plan that not only meets your care needs, but your budget requirements, too. Once we discover the level of care that you or your senior need, we develop an in-home care plan that you can afford.

In addition to our flexible care options, families should also consider the following resources to help offset potential home care costs:

If your loved one qualifies, Medicaid may help reduce in-home care costs. Review your VA's Medicaid program laws and benefits, and make sure your senior's financial and medical needs meet Medicaid eligibility requirements.
Attendance and aid benefits through military service can cover a portion of the costs associated with in-home care for veterans and their spouses.
Many senior care services like in-home care are included in long-term care insurance options. Research different long-term care solutions to find a plan that provides coverage for senior care.
Home care can be included as part of a senior's private insurance plan. Read over your loved one's insurance policy carefully or speak with their insurance provider to determine if in-home care is covered.
Depending on the life insurance plan, you may be able to apply your policy toward long-term care. You may be able to use long-term-care coverage to help pay for in-home elderly care.
 Senior Care Fairfax Station, VA

Compassionate Care. Trusted Caregivers.

When you or your senior loved one needs assistance managing daily tasks at home, finding a qualified caregiver can be challenging. It takes a special kind of person to provide reliable care for your senior loved one. However, a caregiver's role involves more than meal preparation and medication reminders. Many seniors rely on their caregivers for companionship, too.

Our companion care services give seniors the chance to socialize in a safe environment and engage in activities at home. These important efforts boost morale and provide much-needed relief from repetitive daily routines. A one-on-one, engaging conversation can sharpen seniors' minds and give them something in which to be excited.

At Always Best Care, we only hire care providers that we would trust to care for our own loved ones. Our senior caregivers in Fairfax Station, VA understand how important it is to listen and communicate with their seniors. A seemingly small interaction, like a short hug goodbye, can make a major difference in a senior's day. Instead of battling against feelings of isolation, seniors begin to look forward to seeing their caregiver each week.

Understanding the nuances of senior care is just one of the reasons why our care providers are so great at their job.

Unlike some senior care companies, our caregivers must undergo extensive training before they work for Always Best Care. In addition, our caregivers receive ongoing training throughout the year. This training ensures that their standard of care matches up to the high standards we've come to expect. During this training, they will brush up on their communication skills, safety awareness, and symptom spotting. That way, your loved one receives the highest level of non-medical home care from day one.

Assisted Living Referral Services

While it's true that many seniors prefer to age at home, sometimes in-home care isn't the best fit. For those seniors and their families, choosing an assisted living facility makes more sense. Unfortunately, finding the optimal care facility is easier said than done in today's day and age. That's when Always Best Care's assisted living referral services begin to make a lot of sense.

Assisted living is a form of housing intended for seniors who require varying degrees of medical and personal attention. Accommodations may include single rooms, apartments, or shared living arrangements. Assisted living communities are typically designed to resemble a home-like environment and are physically constructed to encourage the independence of residents.


Respite Care Fairfax Station, VA

At assisted living communities, seniors receive help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They may also benefit from coordination of services with outside healthcare providers, and monitoring of resident activities to ensure their health, safety, and well-being. Caregivers who work at assisted living communities can also provide medication administration and personal care services for older adults.

Other services offered within assisted living communities can include some or all of the following:

  • Housekeeping
  • Laundry
  • Recreational Activities
  • Social Outings
  • Emergency Medical Response
  • Medication Monitoring
  • Family Visitation
  • Personal Care
 Caregivers Fairfax Station, VA

At Always Best Care, our representatives can match your senior's emotional, physical, and financial needs with viable assisted living communities nearby. Results are based on comparative data, so you can select the best choice for you or your loved one.

Always Best Care works closely with local senior living communities to gain valuable knowledge that we then use to help seniors and their loved ones make informed decisions. This information can include basic care and rent, resident availability, and services provided. Because Always Best Care is compensated by these communities, we provide senior living referral services at no extra cost to you.

Home Care Fairfax Station, VA

For many seniors, moving into a senior living community revolves around how and when they want to make a transition to more involved care. Some seniors are more proactive about transitioning to independent living. Others choose to remain home until their care needs or other requirements are satisfied. Remember - our staff is here to help. Contact our office today to learn more about assisted living communities and how we can find a facility that exceeds your expectations.

 In-Home Care Fairfax Station, VA

Taking the First Step with Always Best Care

The first step in getting quality in-home care starts with a personal consultation with an experienced Always Best Care Care Coordinator. This initial consultation is crucial for our team to learn more about you or your elderly loved one to discover the level of care required. Topics of this consultation typically include:

A discussion of your needs and how our trained caregivers can offer assistance in the most effective way

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A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive

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Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider

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Our caregivers are trained to spot changes that clients exhibit, like mental and physical decline. As your trusted senior care company, we will constantly assess and update your Care Plan to meet any new emotional, intellectual, physical, and emotional needs.

If you have never considered in-home care before, we understand that you and your family may have concerns about your Care Plan and its Care Coordinator. To help give you peace of mind, know that every team member and caregiver must undergo comprehensive training before being assigned to a Care Plan.

At the end of the day, we only hire the best of the best at Always Best Care. Whether you need home care in Fairfax Station, VA 24-hours a day or only need a respite for a couple of hours, we are here to serve you.

When you're ready, we encourage you to contact your local Always Best Care representative to set up a Care Consultation. Our Care Coordinators would be happy to meet with you in person to get to know you better, discuss your needs, and help put together a personalized Care Plan specific to your needs.

 Elderly Care Fairfax Station, VA

Latest News in Fairfax Station, VA

Weapon Detectors Coming To Some Fairfax County Schools As Pilot Program

Fairfax County Public Schools will launch a pilot program with weapon detectors at high schools and secondary schools.FAIRFAX COUNTY, VA — High schools and secondary schools in Fairfax County will be part of a test on screening for weapons.Fairfax County Public Schools announced that a weapon detection pilot program will launch on Monday, April 21. During the pilot program, the school system will se...

Fairfax County Public Schools will launch a pilot program with weapon detectors at high schools and secondary schools.

FAIRFAX COUNTY, VA — High schools and secondary schools in Fairfax County will be part of a test on screening for weapons.

Fairfax County Public Schools announced that a weapon detection pilot program will launch on Monday, April 21. During the pilot program, the school system will set up 15 Open Gate weapon detection devices at randomly-selected high schools or secondary schools. At least one school per week will be selected to have the devices for morning arrival times, and they would remain for several days.

"We all know that one of the most important things in teaching and learning is the feeling of safety, and our students here in Fairfax County and our staff continue to rely on us using layered forms of safety and security practices," said Superintendent Michelle Reid in a video demonstrating the technology.

The schools using the weapons detectors that week will not be announced in advance. After the morning bell, FCPS will notify parents or guardians that their child's school was selected, and a second message later that day will send results of the weapons screening.

FCPS noted that the technology is similar to screening devices used at sporting events and concerts. The screening technology can detect weapons such as knives, firearms, handguns, long guns, and materials used to make an explosive device.

Find out what's happening in Viennafor free with the latest updates from Patch.

Students would have to take out laptops and binder when passing through the screening, FCPS Chief Safety and Security Officer Brian Lambert said in the video. All other items could remain in the student's bag. FCPS says a student declining to pass through the detector would be sent home.

If the detector produces an alert, the student would receive a secondary screening. FCPS said various non-weapon items could cause an alert, including three-ring binders, laptops, eyeglass cases, umbrellas, metal lunchboxes and pencil cases.

Fairfax County budget hearings draw crowds, more than 250 people testify

The proposed budget includes about $60 million in proposed cuts, with impacts to public safety, community services and schools.FAIRFAX COUNTY, Va. — As Fairfax County faces what they're calling a "challenging budget year", they've opened the floor up to residents to weigh in. Over the course of three days, they hea...

The proposed budget includes about $60 million in proposed cuts, with impacts to public safety, community services and schools.

FAIRFAX COUNTY, Va. — As Fairfax County faces what they're calling a "challenging budget year", they've opened the floor up to residents to weigh in. Over the course of three days, they heard from 271 residents.

The proposed budget includes about $60 million in proposed cuts, with impacts to public safety, community services and schools.

A major point of contention is the gap between the amount of money the county's school system has requested and what the proposed budget delivers.

Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) accounts for more than half of the Fairfax County budget. The school system has asked for an additional $268 million in county funding, but the proposed budget from the county executive includes just $118 million.

"I know that comes short of what they requested, but it is a sizable increase that is already included in the budget," said Jeff McKay, Chairman of the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors.

RELATED: 'Fairfax County is worth fighting for' | Residents voice strong opinions on proposed budget, tax increases

According to FCPS, that underfunding of about $150 million will have impacts.

Credit: FCPS

FCPS officials say without full funding, they will face difficult choices, including cuts to after-school programs, the elimination of high school crossing guards, and canceling planned 7% salary increases for staff.

"I know the Board of Supervisors are currently in their budget hearing phase, and I trust that they're going to see the value in fully funding the budget transfer," FCPS Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid told WUSA9 Thursday.

The county is also weighing potential tax increases, including a 4% meals tax, but McKay emphasized that even with additional revenue, some cuts will be inevitable.

"To be clear, we are transferring to the schools enough money to increase compensation for FCPS teachers and staff," McKay said. "The real question is gonna be how do they reprioritize their budget and how much of that increase are they gonna be able to share with their employees, and I hope it's the most possible."

The Board of Supervisors is expected to make budget changes following the public hearings. The official budget markup is scheduled for May 6.

Fairfax County Parkway nighttime closures at Popes Head Road continue tonight - May 15

Update: Additional closures scheduled nights of May 19-22Update: The Thursday night, May 15, closures remain on schedule, weather permitting. Due to rain the week of May 12, the closures detailed below are additionally scheduled for Monday night, May 19; Tuesday night, May 20; Wednesday night, May 21; and Thursday night, May 22 between 10 p.m. and 4:30 a.m. each night.FAIRFAX – Weather permitting, Fairfax County Parkway (Route 286) will again have nighttime full closures between Burke Centre Parkway (Rout...

Update: Additional closures scheduled nights of May 19-22

Update: The Thursday night, May 15, closures remain on schedule, weather permitting. Due to rain the week of May 12, the closures detailed below are additionally scheduled for Monday night, May 19; Tuesday night, May 20; Wednesday night, May 21; and Thursday night, May 22 between 10 p.m. and 4:30 a.m. each night.

FAIRFAX – Weather permitting, Fairfax County Parkway (Route 286) will again have nighttime full closures between Burke Centre Parkway (Route 643) and Braddock Road (Route 620) Monday night, May 12, through Thursday night, May 15, to install beams for the future Shirley Gate Road extension overpass as part of the Fairfax County Parkway and Popes Head Road interchange project, according to the Virginia Department of Transportation.

On Monday night, May 12, Tuesday night, May 13, Wednesday night, May 14, and Thursday night, May 15, between 10 p.m. and 4:30 a.m. each night:

Drivers should expect significant delays and are advised to use alternate routes.

The Fairfax County Parkway and Popes Head Road interchange project is replacing the traffic signal at Fairfax County Parkway and Popes Head Road with an interchange. The interchange will feature triple roundabouts that will allow traffic to flow freely via two new bridges over Fairfax County Parkway.

The project also includes:

The project is scheduled for completion in late 2026.

Drivers, bicyclists and pedestrians are reminded to use caution when traveling in active work zones. Be alert to new traffic patterns and limit distractions.

You can get traffic, work zone and incident information online at 511.vdot.virginia.gov, via the free mobile 511Virginia app, or by calling 511 in Virginia anywhere anytime.

Ding dong dinner: Fairfax Co. McDonald’s rings in new doorbell entry security system

The McDonald’s on Franconia Road in the Alexandria section of Fairfax County has taken a significant step to increase its security measures after several safety incidents.The popular fast-food chain location has decided to close its indoor dining to anyone under 21 years old, and will now require adults to ring a doorbell.The sign posted on the front door reads: “SAFETY NOTICE: Effective immediately. Due to repeated incidents of student violence, this McDonald’s location is temporarily closed for dine-in servi...

The McDonald’s on Franconia Road in the Alexandria section of Fairfax County has taken a significant step to increase its security measures after several safety incidents.

The popular fast-food chain location has decided to close its indoor dining to anyone under 21 years old, and will now require adults to ring a doorbell.

The sign posted on the front door reads: “SAFETY NOTICE: Effective immediately. Due to repeated incidents of student violence, this McDonald’s location is temporarily closed for dine-in services to anyone under 21 years of age. The decision was made to protect our staff, our guests, and our community.”

One recent incident in 2023 involved a gunshot heard in the bathroom of the McDonald’s. Police reported that the teens seen leaving the premises shortly after the gun discharged were students at nearby Edison High School.

In a statement to WTOP on Friday, McDonald’s said: “We love being part of the Edison community and we value each and every customer. We’ve enhanced our Franconia Road McDonald’s security measures in an effort to promote a safe environment for our customers and staff. This policy was developed in partnership with local school officials with oversight from local law enforcement. This serves as a temporary fix as we work towards a long-term solution for all.”

Community reactions to the new security efforts have been largely positive, with many saying they’re loving the proactive approach taken by McDonald’s.

“These people in here trying to serve people, and they’re scared for their life,” said one customer in the drive-thru on Friday.

One customer leaving the drive-thru told WTOP, “You’ve got to take care of the safety of your employees.”

“They’ve got to do what they’ve got to do. If people are just going to fight in there, it makes sense that they’re going to lock it,” said a customer on foot that said he had been turned away from the inside dining room. “I ordered on the app. I tried ringing the doorbell. They just said, ‘Are you over 21?’ And I was like, ‘No, I’m under 21’ and I said, ‘Can I eat in there?’ And they said, ‘No.’ They said I could take it to go.”

The posted sign on the door goes on to state: “Adults — we are still here to serve you! Please ring the doorbell, and a member of our team will assist you.”

The drive-thru and mobile app are still available to all.

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Fairfax County residents demand board of supervisors to stop raising taxes

On April 22, Fairfax County residents sounded off at the first of three public hearings to demand that the board of supervisors stop raising taxes. (Nick Minock, 7News)FAIRFAX COUNTY, Va. (7News) — On Tuesday evening, Fairfax County residents sounded off to demand that the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors stop raising taxes in the first of three public hearings on the upcoming budget.The county has a $300 million budget shortfall, and the board of supervisors is looking at cutting $60 million in county services, raisin...

On April 22, Fairfax County residents sounded off at the first of three public hearings to demand that the board of supervisors stop raising taxes. (Nick Minock, 7News)

FAIRFAX COUNTY, Va. (7News) — On Tuesday evening, Fairfax County residents sounded off to demand that the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors stop raising taxes in the first of three public hearings on the upcoming budget.

The county has a $300 million budget shortfall, and the board of supervisors is looking at cutting $60 million in county services, raising existing taxes, and implementing new taxes on residents and small businesses.

“Stop raising taxes" --- that’s the message several Fairfax County residents are sending to the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors, who are looking at raising taxes on homeowners by the highest amount in 10 years.

“I just think it's ridiculous,” one man told 7News. “I'm already hurting from what they've done to us for the last 10 years.”

“My husband and I, we're on a fixed income and we can’t afford to keep paying higher property taxes,” another Fairfax County resident told 7News. “People just need to pay attention when they vote. If you're not happy with what's going on in your county, speak up.”

Supporters of the tax increases also spoke up at Tuesday's public hearing.

"Just because they aren't here tonight doesn't mean that we don't exist," said Molly Sullivan, who owns a home in Fairfax County. "If you look at the average age, no offense, of the people that are against the tax increase, they are not able to benefit from a lot of the things the taxes pay for, like better school employees."

The county executive’s advertised budget would raise taxes on the average homeowner by more than $600.

“I think it's going to cause problems,” another Fairfax County resident told 7News.

And restaurant workers are asking the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors not to implement a food tax.

“It will absolutely do irreparable harm to the restaurant industry,” Eric Terry told 7News.

Fairfax County voters have voted against implementing a food tax twice, but the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors is still looking at implementing one anyway.

“Do you think the board is listening to voters?” 7News Reporter Nick Minock asked Terry.

“I don't think so,” said Terry.

Year after year, many Fairfax County families have called on the board to stop raising taxes.

“I am not alone in saying that, as my family considers having another kid, we are certain we cannot afford to expand our family here in Fairfax County,” a woman who held her newborn baby told the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors and Chair Jeff McKay in 2024.

RELATED | Fairfax County leaders set to hear from concerned residents on budget cuts, tax increases

But McKay and the board still raised taxes last year and the year before, while giving themselves a big raise, and McKay gave himself a taxpayer-funded vehicle to drive.

“Who came up with this idea to give yourself a 47% raise while the rest of Virginia residents live below poverty?” one man asked McKay and the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors in 2023.

One woman told the board of supervisors on Tuesday that she supports the tax increases.

“If we pay our fair share in taxes, we will contribute to the wellness of our community," she said.

One thing driving the $300 million budget shortfall is that the board is expecting to give Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) more money despite largely flat student enrollment. FCPS has communicated that it needs more money to educate kids who do not speak English and to raise teacher pay.

If you didn’t get a chance to speak to the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors on Tuesday, there will be a public hearing on the budget on Wednesday and Thursday.

Those seeking to voice opinions about the proposed county budget and its potential impact on their family can speak at upcoming Fairfax County Board public hearings on April 23 and 24 at 3 p.m. at the Fairfax County Government Center.

For several weeks, 7News has been asking Fairfax County Board of Supervisors Chair McKay for an interview to discuss the county budget. McKay has refused to interview with 7News on the budget.

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