July 1, 2026 — As we enter July and reflect on Independence Day, we recognize the service and sacrifice of Veterans whose contributions have helped strengthen and protect our nation. With the nation approaching its 250th anniversary, it is an appropriate time to highlight programs that support Veterans not only through recognition, but also through services that help them maintain independence, dignity and choice in their daily lives.
What Is the Veterans Directed Care Program?
The Veterans Directed Care (VDC) Program is a valuable resource designed to help Veterans of all ages remain safely in their homes and communities. This program is especially beneficial for individuals who are at risk of placement in a long-term care facility.
A Model Built on Choice and Independence
At its core, the VDC program emphasizes independence, flexibility, and personal choice. Through this self-directed model, eligible Veterans receive a monthly budget to manage their own long-term services and supports. This allows participants to take an active role in deciding what services best meet their needs and how those services are delivered.
Personalized Care on Your Terms
One of the key benefits of the VDC program is the ability for Veterans to hire, schedule, and supervise their own caregivers. This could include hiring family members, friends, or professional caregivers, giving Veterans greater control over who provides their care and how it is managed. This level of personalization ensures that services are tailored to each individual’s unique preferences, routines, and goals.
Centralina Area Agency on Aging serves as an Options Counseling partner for the VDC program in partnership with Bay Aging. Together, they support Veterans connected to the Salisbury and Columbia Veterans Affairs offices, helping participants navigate the program and access the services available to them.
Who Is Eligible and How to Get Started?
The program is available to Veterans of any age who are enrolled in the Veterans Affairs (VA) health care system and meet the clinical criteria for long-term services and supports. To get started, Veterans are encouraged to speak with their primary care provider at their local VA Medical Center. A provider can help determine eligibility and guide Veterans through the enrollment process.
Improving Quality of Life at Home
The Veterans Directed Care Program offers a person-centered approach to care, one that prioritizes dignity, independence, and the ability to remain connected to home and community. For many Veterans and their families, VDC represents a meaningful pathway to maintaining quality of life while receiving the support they need.
Learn More
If you or someone you know would like more information about the program or would like to help spread the word in your community, please contact Kristen Srouji at ksrouji@centralina.org.
For more information about eligibility or enrollment, Veterans should contact their primary care provider at their local VA Medical Center.
