Can Family Members Get Paid for Caregiving in Vermont?

In Vermont, family members can get paid for caregiving. Seniors have access to several programs that pay family members for care provided at home. These programs are designed to help seniors stay in their own homes while relieving the financial burden of taking care of a loved one. This guide provides an overview of three programs that pay family members for caregiving: Choices for Care, the Dementia Respite Care Grant and Veteran-Directed Care.

Under Vermont’s Global Commitment to Health Waiver, Choices for Care gives seniors monthly payments to hire the caregiver of their choice. Participants can also use the money for home health services, caregiver respite and accessibility modifications, such as shower grab bars and walk-in tubs. The program has a managed care option that coordinates services for seniors, but this option doesn’t include a monthly stipend because care will be arranged for participants on their behalf.

To qualify, applicants must be aged 65+ (or 18+ and disabled) and need a nursing home level of care. They must also be eligible for Medicaid. In 2023, there is a monthly income limit of $2,742 and asset limit of $2,000 per applicant. To apply, contact a local Area Agency on Aging or call the Department of Children and Family Services at (800) 479-6151.

The Dementia Respite Care Grant provides monetary relief for people who are taking care of someone with Alzheimer’s or dementia. This grant gives family members up to $1,000 to pay for adult day care, housekeeping, caregiver respite and other services that allow their loved one to stay at home.

To qualify, seniors must meet Medicaid income limit requirements, live within an Area Agency on Aging service area and have a doctor’s diagnosis of dementia or Alzheimer’s. Seniors are ineligible for this grant if they are participating in Choices for Care, Veteran-Directed Care or the Attendant Care Program. Contact a local Area Agency on Aging to apply.

If your loved one is a former military member, they may qualify to receive financial help through the Veteran-Directed Care program. The program is open to any veteran who is enrolled in VA health care, meets the clinical need for care and is able to safely reside in their own community. In addition to paying family caregivers, funds can be used for respite, meals, housekeeping and other necessary services. To learn more, contact a local VA office or Area Agency on Aging.