Veteran Directed Care

Veteran Directed Care (VDC)

Veterans deserve support that respects their choices, routines, and goals. LINC’s Veteran Directed Care program helps eligible Veterans get the assistance they need to live at home and stay connected to their communities.

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What is Veteran Directed Care?

Veteran Directed Care, often called VDC, is a VA program that gives Veterans more choice and control over their daily support.

 

Veterans receive an approved budget based on their care needs. With help from a program counselor, they develop a plan for using that budget to arrange services and supports. A representative can help manage the program when needed.

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What does “Veteran directed” mean?

The Veteran takes the lead in deciding who provides assistance and how that assistance fits into daily life.

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This may include choosing, hiring, training, and supervising workers, as well as setting their schedules and directing their tasks. Workers may include qualified family members, friends, or other people the Veteran chooses, within program rules.

 

Veteran Directed Care comes with responsibilities, but Veterans do not have to manage everything alone. LINC provides guidance and support along the way.

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What support can the program provide?

Veteran Directed Care helps with everyday activities that support living at home.

 

Depending on the Veteran’s needs and approved plan, assistance may include:

• Bathing, dressing, eating, and using the bathroom.

• Moving around or transferring between a bed and wheelchair.

• Preparing meals and completing household tasks.

• Getting support to take part in community activities.

 

Other services or items may be available when they meet an identified need and are approved under program rules.

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How does LINC help?

LINC works with Veterans and their chosen representatives to understand what matters to them and plan support around their needs.

 

We help Veterans understand the program, develop their service and spending plans, and work through questions about managing their support. As needs change, we help Veterans explore adjustments to their plans.

 

Our approach starts with the Veteran’s choices. The goal is support that helps each person live with dignity, independence, and control.

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Who may qualify?

Veteran Directed Care serves eligible Veterans of all ages who need help with daily activities. Veterans must be enrolled in VA health care, meet the VA’s community care and clinical requirements, and live in an area where the program is available.

A service-connected disability rating is not required. The VA determines eligibility and authorizes services.

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How to get started

Talk with your VA social worker or care team about Veteran Directed Care and whether it may be a good fit.

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You can also contact LINC to learn more about our program and the referral process.

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Independence includes support

Living independently does not mean doing everything without help. It means having a voice in decisions and control over daily life. Veteran Directed Care helps Veterans receive support on their own terms.