How to apply for Nutrition Counseling in Virginia

Who it's for

Area Agencies on Aging offer one-to-one nutrition counselling from a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, under the federally funded Older Americans Act programmes. It is for older adults at nutritional risk — because of a long-term illness, the medicines they take, or not eating well — and produces a tailored plan to improve your nutrition. It can be done in person, by telehealth, or at a congregate meal site, and sits alongside home-delivered and congregate meals.

Where to apply

Step by step

1. Confirm that you or your loved one is an older adult at nutritional risk — for example, due to a long-term illness, medications, or poor eating habits.
2. Find your local Area Agency on Aging, since this program is delivered locally and availability may vary by where you live.
3. Apply online through the Virginia application portal to connect with your local Area Agency on Aging.
4. Work with your local Area Agency on Aging to schedule your one-to-one session with a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist — in person, by telehealth, or at a congregate meal site, depending on what is available in your area.

What to expect: After you apply, your local Area Agency on Aging will follow up to confirm your eligibility and arrange your nutrition counseling session. A Registered Dietitian Nutritionist will work with you to create a tailored plan to improve your nutrition. Processing times and scheduling can vary by locality, so ask your local agency for an estimate of how soon you can expect to be seen. There is no published fee or income test for this program. Check with your local agency about whether periodic renewal or follow-up sessions are needed.