Benefits · Home Care
How to apply for Veteran Directed Care (VDC) — Cuyahoga County
Western Reserve Area Agency on Aging (WRAAA, Cleveland), the designated Area Agency on Aging for Cuyahoga, Geauga, Lake, Lorain and Medina counties, in partnership with the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Who it's for
Lets veterans of all ages use a VA-funded budget to arrange their own home and community-based care, including hiring family members or neighbors to help with daily tasks such as eating, dressing, bathing, using the bathroom, mobility and grocery shopping. A WRAAA Person-Centered Counselor helps the veteran plan the budget; a financial management agency pays the workers and handles the tax paperwork, so no money passes through the veteran. Veterans on a Medicaid waiver can participate, and there is no financial test. WRAAA is accepting referrals in all five counties: 216-727-2852 or VeteranDirectedCare@areaagingsolutions.org.
You must meet the VA's community-care criteria and an intermediate level of care — help with at least two activities of daily living, or one ADL plus medication help, or a skilled nursing or rehabilitation need, or 24-hour supervision for a diagnosed cognitive impairment — and be evaluated by a VA physician. The VA approves the spending plan; WRAAA coordinates it.
What you'll need
- Proof of veteran status
- VA medical center referral (consult) to Veteran-Directed Care
- Proof of Cuyahoga County residency
Where to apply
Apply online: official application
By phone: 216-727-2852
What to say when you call
"Hello, I'm calling to ask about Veteran Directed Care (VDC) — Cuyahoga 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 of veteran status, vA medical center referral (consult) to Veteran-Directed Care, proof of Cuyahoga County residency — 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
annual budget approval (VA-approved spending plan)
Not sure if you qualify? Run a free check first.
Find my benefitsNot legal or financial advice. The agency makes the final eligibility decision.