How to apply for Veteran Directed Care (VDC) — Levy County in Florida
Elder Options (The Mid-Florida Area Agency on Aging, Inc.), in partnership with the North Florida/South Georgia Veterans Health System (U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs)
Who it's for
Veteran Directed Care lets a veteran stay at home and choose who provides their care, including hiring a family member or friend. Elder Options states it is for veterans of all ages who need help with activities of daily living such as bathing and getting dressed, or with instrumental activities such as fixing meals, who are isolated, or whose caregiver is experiencing burden, regardless of service connection or wartime era. The veteran gets a monthly VA-funded budget to hire workers and buy services, and can direct it or name someone to direct it. To qualify you must get your primary care through the North Florida/South Georgia Veterans Health System; enrollment starts with a consult from your VA primary care provider. Elder Options serves Levy County. Call the Elder Helpline at 1-800-262-2243, or the Malcolm Randall VA Medical Center at 352-264-7300, option 3.
There is no age limit and no service-connected requirement, but the VA decides eligibility: you must get your primary care through the North Florida/South Georgia Veterans Health System, need a nursing-home level of care or help with daily activities, and receive a consult from your VA primary care provider. You cannot self-refer. The monthly budget is set by the VA per veteran and is not published. Not legal or financial advice.
People who qualify for one senior program often qualify for others. See everything you may qualify for — free, no SSN, about five minutes.
Discover my benefitsWhat you'll need
- Proof you are enrolled in the Veterans Health Administration
- A consult/referral from your VA primary care provider at the North Florida/South Georgia Veterans Health System
Where to apply
Apply online: official application
By phone: 1-800-262-2243
What to say when you call
"Hello, I'm calling to ask about Veteran Directed Care (VDC) — Levy County. I'd like to know whether I may qualify, what documents I need, and whether I can apply online, by mail, by phone, or in person. I understand I may need proof you are enrolled in the Veterans Health Administration, a consult/referral from your VA primary care provider at the North Florida/South Georgia Veterans Health System — is anything else required? What is the best next step?"
Tip: have a pen ready, ask for the person's name, and write down any case or reference number they give you.
Renewals
per VA care plan
Not sure if you qualify? Run a free check first.
Discover my benefitsNot legal or financial advice. The agency makes the final eligibility decision.
