Benefits and Resources for Disabled Seniors in Vermont

Written & Reviewed by

Analic Mata-Murray

Analic Mata-Murray

Managing Editor

Yolanda Taylor

Yolanda Taylor

Senior Healthcare Editor

Last updated: August 2025

— This guide is written for disabled Vermonters age 60+ (and their families). It focuses on state-specific benefits, how to apply, what to expect, and where to get help when things aren’t straightforward. Every claim includes an official source link so you can verify and get the latest details.

QUICK HELP (Keep this handy)

Vermont has one of the oldest populations in the country, and more than one in five residents are age 65 and over. That makes access to good information critical. About 28% of Vermont adults live with a disability, higher than the national average, which increases the need for accessible housing, transportation, health care, and daily supports. Sources: U.S. Census Bureau – QuickFacts: Vermont and CDC Disability & Health: Vermont profile

Emergency help in Vermont (start here if you’re in crisis)

  • Call 911 for any immediate danger or medical emergency.
  • Dial 988 for mental health or substance use crises, 24/7. Veterans can press 1 for the Veterans Crisis Line. Source: 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline and U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
  • If you’re seeking shelter, food, medication, or urgent transportation, call Vermont 211 anytime. They’ll connect you to local services.
  • If you suspect abuse, neglect, or financial exploitation of a vulnerable adult, report it. Learn how to report through Adult Protective Services – Vermont DAIL. If someone is in immediate danger, call 911.

Reality check: Some services have waitlists or limited hours, especially in storms or floods. Vermont 211 keeps a live resource directory and is the fastest way to find what’s open right now.

What this guide covers (and how to use it)

  • A quick map of major programs (health, long-term care, food, housing, cash help, transportation).
  • Who qualifies, what’s covered, where to apply, and what to do if you’re denied.
  • Vermont-specific supports like Choices for Care (long-term care Medicaid), 3SquaresVT, VCIL Home Access Program, E&D Transportation, SASH, and more.
  • Inclusive sections for LGBTQ+ seniors, veterans, tribal citizens, and rural Vermonters.
  • Step-by-step checklists and FAQs.

Tip: Keep a folder with your ID, proof of Vermont residency, Social Security card, income statements, bank statements, and medical records. Almost every program will ask for these.

Benefits at a glance (Vermont programs many disabled seniors use)

Program Who it’s for What it covers Where to apply / learn more
Medicare 65+ and younger people with SSDI after waiting period Hospital, doctor, and drug coverage; options for Medigap or Medicare Advantage Medicare.gov
Vermont Medicaid & Choices for Care 65+ and adults with disabilities meeting financial/clinical rules Health coverage; long-term supports at home, assisted living, or nursing facility Department of Vermont Health Access (Medicaid), DAIL – Choices for Care
Medicare Savings Programs Low-to-moderate income Medicare enrollees Pays Medicare Part B premium and sometimes deductibles/coinsurance Medicare Savings Programs
Extra Help (Part D) Low-income people with Medicare Lowers prescription drug costs Social Security – Extra Help
SSI & SSDI People with very low income (SSI) and those with work credits (SSDI) Monthly cash income; path to Medicaid/Medicare Social Security Disability and SSI
3SquaresVT (SNAP) Low-to-moderate income households; simplified for seniors/disabled Monthly food benefit; extra deductions for medical costs 3SquaresVT
Fuel Assistance (LIHEAP) & Crisis Fuel Low-to-moderate income households Help with heating bills and emergencies Fuel Assistance
Weatherization Assistance Low-income households Free insulation, sealing, and energy-saving work Weatherization in Vermont
VSHA housing & vouchers Older adults and people with disabilities Affordable apartments, vouchers Vermont State Housing Authority
Assistive Technology & Home Access Adults with disabilities Device loans/reuse; ramps and home mods (grants) Vermont Assistive Technology Program, VCIL Home Access Program
Transportation (E&D, ADA, NEMT) Older adults and disabled riders Door-to-door rides to medical and essential trips VTrans public transit

Note: Program names link to official state or federal sites, or to long-established nonprofits delivering the service in Vermont.

Health coverage and long‑term care in Vermont

Medicare (and how to lower your costs)

  • What it is: Federal health coverage for people 65+ and some younger adults with disabilities. Parts A (hospital) and B (medical) are called Original Medicare. You can add a Part D drug plan and/or a Medigap policy, or choose a Medicare Advantage plan. Learn more at Medicare.gov.
  • Ways to save:

Reality check: Medigap underwriting and Medicare Advantage network rules can be confusing. Keep notes from any calls, ask for plan documents in writing, and bring a list of your doctors and drugs to a SHIP counseling session.

Vermont Medicaid and Choices for Care (long‑term services and supports)

  • What it is: Medicaid in Vermont is administered by the Department of Vermont Health Access and covers medical care for people with limited income. Choices for Care is Vermont’s long-term care Medicaid program for older adults and adults with disabilities; it can pay for care in the home, assisted living/Enhanced Residential Care, or nursing facilities. Learn more at DVHA – Vermont Medicaid and DAIL – Choices for Care.
  • Who it helps: Vermonters age 65+ or adults 18+ with disabilities who meet both financial and clinical eligibility. The program has different levels of need; those with the highest needs typically get priority.
  • What it covers:
    • In‑home supports (personal care, homemaker, adult day, respite), case management, and equipment.
    • Assisted living/Enhanced Residential Care.
    • Nursing home care when needed.
  • How to apply:
    • Start with your local Area Agency on Aging or a hospital/community case manager. AAAs can help with the clinical assessment and paperwork. Find yours at V4A – Find Your AAA.
    • Financial eligibility is determined by Medicaid. You can start the financial side online or by contacting Vermont Health Connect or your local Economic Services office (see DVHA).
  • Self‑direction: Many people choose self‑directed care options (sometimes called Flexible Choices) to hire family or trusted caregivers for in‑home services. Ask your AAA about self‑direction under Choices for Care. Source: DAIL.

Reality check:

  • Moderate Needs services may have waitlists depending on funding. Keep calling if your needs change.
  • Financial rules change each year; spousal protections exist, but paperwork is detailed. Use AAA case managers or a trusted elder law attorney for complex cases. For facility concerns, contact the Vermont Long‑Term Care Ombudsman (Vermont Legal Aid).

Medicare, Medicaid, and prescriptions at a glance

Topic What to know Where to get help
Medicare Part D Compare plans by drugs and pharmacies. Medicare Plan Finder
Extra Help Lowers premiums, deductibles, and copays for Part D. SSA – Extra Help
Medicare Savings Programs Can pay Part B premium; may cover cost‑sharing. MSPs overview
Medicaid transportation Medicaid may cover rides to medically necessary care. Ask your AAA or see VTrans – Public Transit
Counseling Free, unbiased coverage counseling. V4A – AAA Medicare help

Income, cash, and bills

Social Security Disability (SSDI) and SSI

  • SSDI: For people who worked and paid Social Security taxes but can no longer work due to disability. The monthly amount depends on your earnings record. Learn more at SSDI.
  • SSI: Needs‑based cash benefit for people with very low income/resources who are 65+ or disabled. SSI often connects you to Medicaid. Learn more at SSI.
  • How to apply: You can apply online for SSDI and sometimes SSI, or make an appointment via the SSA office locator. Bring medical records, medication lists, and contact info for your providers.

Reality check: Many disability claims are denied at first. Appeal on time and consider help from a legal aid advocate. See Vermont Legal Aid – Disability Law Project.

Food and utilities

  • 3SquaresVT (SNAP): Monthly funds on an EBT card for groceries. Seniors and people with disabilities can use “3SquaresVT in a SNAP,” a simplified application using Social Security income. Learn more and apply at 3SquaresVT. Source: Vermont Department for Children and Families.
  • Fuel Assistance (LIHEAP): Helps with heating bills; Crisis Fuel can help in emergencies if you’re out of fuel or at risk of shut‑off. See Fuel Assistance. Source: Vermont DCF.
  • Weatherization Assistance: Free energy‑saving work (insulation, air sealing, safety checks) to lower your bills long‑term. See Weatherization in Vermont. Source: Vermont DCF Office of Economic Opportunity.
  • Lifeline (phone): Monthly discount on phone or internet for eligible households. Learn more at Vermont Department of Public Service – Lifeline and USAC Lifeline. Note: The federal Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) ended new funding in 2024; check the state page for any updates.

Property taxes and credits

Housing, home repairs, and supports

Affordable housing and rent help

  • Vermont State Housing Authority (VSHA): Oversees Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8), project‑based housing, and other programs. See waiting lists and applications at VSHA.
  • Find affordable apartments: The Vermont Housing Finance Agency maintains reliable listings. Search by county and features (e.g., elevator, accessibility) at VHFA HousingData – Find Rental Housing.
  • SASH (Support And Services at Home): A Vermont program providing on‑site nurses and care coordinators in many senior housing communities and surrounding neighborhoods. Learn more at Cathedral Square – SASH. This is not a financial benefit but can keep you healthier and safer at home.

Reality check: Many rental lists are first‑come, first‑served. Keep a simple “housing packet” ready: ID, Social Security card, income proof, doctor note about accessibility needs (e.g., no stairs), and a list of references.

Home repairs and accessibility

  • VCIL Home Access Program: Grants and coordination for ramps, bathroom modifications, and other accessibility projects for eligible Vermonters with disabilities. Start here: Vermont Center for Independent Living (VCIL).
  • USDA Rural Development – Home Repair Loans & Grants (Section 504): Low‑interest loans and grants for very low‑income rural homeowners to fix health and safety issues. Learn more at USDA RD – 504 Home Repair and contact the USDA VT/NH State Office.
  • Weatherization (again): Beyond energy savings, crews often address ventilation and basic health/safety. See Weatherization in Vermont.
  • Medicare/Medicaid equipment: Programs may cover durable medical equipment (DME) like walkers, wheelchairs, and bathroom safety devices when medically necessary. Confirm coverage through your plan or Medicare.gov and Vermont Medicaid: DVHA – Covered Services.

Assistive technology and communication

  • Vermont Assistive Technology Program (VATP): Free equipment demos, short‑term device loans, and device reuse connections (hearing, vision, mobility, communication). Learn more at VATP. Source: Vermont DAIL.
  • Telecommunications Equipment Distribution: Vermont provides specialized phones and communication devices for eligible residents with hearing, vision, or mobility impairments. Learn more through Vermont Department of Public Service – Telecommunications and the statewide disability resource hub at VCIL.
  • Wheelchair and DME reuse: Ask VATP about reuse partners and free/low‑cost options.

Reality check: Device waitlists can happen. If a loaner helps, ask your clinician to document the improvement; it strengthens insurance coverage requests.

Transportation

Vermont combines regional public transit with specialized programs for older adults and people with disabilities. Start at VTrans – Public Transit to find your local provider.

Program What it does Who it serves How to use it
E&D Transportation (Elders & Persons with Disabilities) Rides for medical visits, shopping, and essential trips. Often door‑to‑door with volunteer drivers or vans. 60+ and people with disabilities. Contact your local transit provider via VTrans – Public Transit or ask your AAA.
ADA Paratransit Complementary service for riders who cannot use fixed‑route buses due to disability and live near bus routes. People with disabilities in bus service areas. Apply through your local provider (e.g., GMT). See VTrans transit providers.
Medicaid Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) Rides to covered medical appointments for Medicaid members. Medicaid enrollees. Ask your AAA or DVHA; your local transit provider arranges rides. See DVHA and VTrans.
Veteran rides Many transit providers partner with VA facilities; DAV and VA can help coordinate. Veterans enrolled in VA care. Contact White River Junction VA Medical Center or your local transit provider.

Tip: Book as early as possible and keep your appointment times handy. Ask about rider escorts if you need help getting in/out of buildings.

Caregiving, adult day, and staying at home

  • Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs): Provide case management, caregiver support, Meals on Wheels, Medicare help, and options counseling. Find your local AAA at V4A – Vermont Association of AAAs.
  • Family Caregiver Support: Training, respite, and support groups under the Older Americans Act. Contact your AAA via V4A.
  • Adult Day Services: Daytime programs offering nursing oversight, therapies, activities, and caregiver respite. Ask your AAA or see DAIL – Adult Services.
  • Long‑Term Care Ombudsman: Independent help with complaints about nursing homes, residential care, and in‑home services. See Vermont Legal Aid – Long‑Term Care Ombudsman.

Reality check: Staffing shortages are real. If a program is full, ask to be waitlisted and request referrals to similar sites in nearby towns.

Food and nutrition (beyond the grocery card)

Program What it is Why it matters Where to learn more
3SquaresVT (SNAP) Monthly EBT food benefits; seniors/disabled can use “in a SNAP” simplified rules. Extra medical expense deductions can increase your benefit. 3SquaresVT
Meals on Wheels Hot/cold meals to homebound older adults, plus a daily safety check. Reduces isolation; check‑in can catch problems early. Contact your AAA via V4A
CSFP (Senior Food Boxes) Monthly shelf‑stable food for adults 60+ who qualify. Helps stretch budgets. Vermont Foodbank – CSFP
Congregate meals Group meals at senior centers and housing sites. Nutrition + social time + info on benefits. Ask your AAA via V4A

Source: Vermont DCF, Area Agencies on Aging, and Vermont Foodbank.

Legal, financial protection, and rights

Reality check: Appeal deadlines are short (often 30 days). If you get a denial, call legal aid right away and keep the envelope the letter came in.

Work, volunteering, and community

  • HireAbility Vermont (Vocational Rehabilitation): Job counseling, training, workplace accommodations, and help returning to work after illness or injury. See HireAbility Vermont. Source: Vermont DAIL.
  • SCSEP (Senior Community Service Employment Program): Paid part‑time training positions for low‑income Vermonters 55+. Contact Vermont Associates, a longtime SCSEP provider: Vermont Associates for Training & Development.
  • Volunteering: Many seniors enjoy structured volunteering through AmeriCorps Seniors (Foster Grandparent, RSVP, Senior Companion). Find programs at AmeriCorps Seniors or through your AAA.

Reality check: Earnings can affect SSI/Medicaid. Ask a benefits counselor to help you use work incentives safely.

Special focus: Inclusive supports

LGBTQ+ seniors in Vermont

Veteran seniors

Abenaki and other Native seniors

  • Vermont recognizes several Abenaki tribes at the state level. For cultural and community links, see the Vermont Commission on Native American Affairs.
  • Some federal elder services are funded through the ACL Title VI program. Use the ACL directory to locate Title VI aging services and contacts: Older Indians – ACL Title VI. Eligibility for federal programs may depend on federal recognition and local program rules—ask your tribal office or AAA for guidance.

Rural seniors and limited access

Step‑by‑step: How to apply for popular benefits

Choices for Care (long‑term care Medicaid)

  1. Call your local AAA and ask for an options counselor to start a Choices for Care assessment. Find your AAA at V4A.
  2. Gather paperwork: ID, Social Security card, Medicare/insurance cards, bank statements, income, assets, housing costs, and a list of doctors/meds.
  3. Complete the Medicaid financial application through Vermont Health Connect or with AAA help.
  4. Ask about self‑direction (hiring your own caregiver) and about respite for family caregivers.
  5. If denied or waitlisted, request the decision in writing and ask your AAA about appeals. For legal help, contact the Long‑Term Care Ombudsman.

3SquaresVT (SNAP)

  1. Apply online, by mail, or in person. Start at 3SquaresVT.
  2. If you’re 60+ or disabled, ask about “3SquaresVT in a SNAP.” Provide proof of out‑of‑pocket medical expenses to maximize your benefit.
  3. Keep receipts for recurring medical costs (co‑pays, premiums, supplies); they can increase your benefit.

Fuel Assistance (LIHEAP) and Crisis Fuel

  1. Apply as soon as the season opens at Fuel Assistance. Have your heating account information ready.
  2. For emergencies (out of fuel or shut‑off), call your local Community Action Agency via Vermont 211.

SSI/SSDI

  1. Gather medical records and contact info for your providers. Make a list of how your condition limits daily activities.
  2. Apply at SSA – Disability or schedule an appointment via the SSA office locator.
  3. If denied, appeal before the deadline. Ask Vermont Legal Aid – Disability Law Project for help.

Useful program tables you can skim

Health and long‑term care programs

Program What it does Key points Source
Medicare Hospital, doctor, and drug coverage for 65+ and some younger disabled Compare Part D/Advantage yearly; consider Medigap Medicare.gov
Medicaid (DVHA) Health coverage for low‑income Vermonters Financial rules vary by category DVHA
Choices for Care Long‑term supports at home, in assisted living, or nursing home Levels of need; self‑direction available DAIL
SHIP counseling Free, unbiased Medicare help via AAAs Local, in‑person help available V4A

Income, food, and energy

Program What it does Tips Source
SSI/SSDI Monthly cash benefits Appeal denials on time SSA
3SquaresVT Monthly food benefit on EBT Report medical costs to boost benefit DCF – 3SquaresVT
LIHEAP (Fuel) Helps with heating bills Apply early; crisis help available DCF – Fuel
Weatherization Free energy‑saving repairs Can fix health/safety issues DCF – Weatherization

Housing and home access

Program What it does Tips Source
VSHA Vouchers and affordable units Waitlists common; apply widely VSHA
SASH On‑site wellness in senior housing Services vary by site Cathedral Square – SASH
VCIL Home Access Ramps and home modifications Get on list early; gather quotes VCIL
USDA 504 Home repair loans/grants Rural areas only; income limits USDA RD – 504

Transportation options

Program Area How to connect Source
E&D Transportation Statewide Ask your AAA or local transit provider VTrans – Public Transit
ADA Paratransit Bus service areas Apply through your local provider VTrans
NEMT (Medicaid) Statewide Arrange via local transit; ask DVHA DVHA

Resources by region (find local help fast)

Tip: If you don’t see your town on a map, call Vermont 211. They have the most up‑to‑date local contacts, even when websites lag behind.

Reality checks, warnings, and tips

  • Beware of “Medicare sales” pressure. Free advice is available from SHIP counselors at your AAA. Never give your Medicare number to someone who called you out of the blue. Report scams to the AG’s Consumer Assistance Program.
  • Keep copies of all applications and a simple call log (date, who you spoke with, what they said). This helps a lot if you need to appeal or re‑apply.
  • Floods and storms: Vermont programs may add temporary disaster help. Check Vermont Emergency Management and Vermont 211 after a disaster.
  • Changing rules: Medicaid income/resource limits, property tax credits, and federal benefits change regularly. Always verify with the linked official site before you decide.

Frequently Asked Questions (Vermont‑specific)

Q: What is Choices for Care, and how is it different from regular Medicaid?
A: Choices for Care is Vermont’s long-term care Medicaid program for older adults and adults with disabilities. It can pay for supports at home, in assisted living/Enhanced Residential Care, or in nursing homes if you meet financial and clinical rules. Regular Medicaid covers general medical care. Learn more at DAIL – Choices for Care and DVHA.

Q: I’m 67, on Medicare, and my income is tight. Can Vermont help with my Medicare costs?
A: Yes. Medicare Savings Programs can pay your Part B premium and sometimes other costs, and Extra Help can lower Part D drug costs if you qualify. See Medicare Savings Programs and SSA – Extra Help. Your Area Agency on Aging can help you apply: V4A.

Q: Are there programs to build a ramp or make my bathroom safer?
A: Yes. Start with the VCIL Home Access Program for accessibility modifications. Also check USDA RD – 504 Home Repair for seniors and the Weatherization program for health, safety, and energy-related improvements.

Q: How do I get rides to medical appointments if I don’t drive?
A: Look up your local provider under VTrans – Public Transit. Ask about E&D Transportation for seniors and ADA Paratransit if you cannot use regular buses. If you have Medicaid, ask your plan or provider about covered medical rides.

Q: Where can I get help filling out applications?
A: Your Area Agency on Aging can help with 3SquaresVT, Medicaid/Choices for Care, Medicare Savings Programs, and more—find yours at V4A – Find Your AAA. For disability claims and appeals, see Vermont Legal Aid – Disability Law Project.

Q: I’m a veteran. Are there Vermont‑specific benefits I should know about?
A: Check the Vermont Office of Veterans Affairs for claims help and state benefits. You may qualify for a property tax exemption (see Disabled Veterans Property Tax Exemption) and free or discounted state park access with the Green Mountain Passport.

Q: Who do I call about suspected abuse in a nursing home or by a caregiver?
A: If someone is in immediate danger, call 911. Otherwise, contact the Vermont Long‑Term Care Ombudsman for resident-advocacy support and see Adult Protective Services – DAIL for how to report abuse, neglect, or exploitation.

Q: I live in a very rural area. Is there any help with internet or phone service?
A: The federal Lifeline program can lower monthly phone or internet costs for eligible households. See Vermont DPS – Lifeline and USAC Lifeline. The separate Affordable Connectivity Program ended new funding in 2024—check the DPS site for updates and local options.

Q: Are there Vermont programs that help me stay healthy at home besides home care?
A: Yes. Look for SASH teams in many senior housing communities (SASH), Adult Day centers through DAIL, wellness and benefits checks via your Area Agency on Aging (V4A), and assistive technology support through the Vermont Assistive Technology Program (VATP).

Q: Where can I find verified statistics about seniors and disability in Vermont?
A: See U.S. Census Bureau – QuickFacts: Vermont for population and income data, and the CDC’s Disability & Health – Vermont profile for disability-related indicators.

Sources (official and well‑established)

Disclaimer

Program details, eligibility rules, and contact information change over time. Always verify with the official agency or program website linked in this guide before applying or making decisions. This guide is for general information and is not legal, tax, or medical advice.

About This Guide

by the GrantsForSeniors.org Editorial Team

The GrantsForSeniors.org editorial team has been building benefit and assistance resources for seniors nationwide since 2020. We research programs across all 50 states by reviewing government websites, checking agency updates, and gathering information from available sources.

Our Commitment to You:

  • Experience & Expertise: The information in this guide is compiled and reviewed by a team with experience in senior services and financial aid programs. We are committed to sharing our knowledge to help you find the support you need.
  • Authority & Trust: We rely on verified sources, including government agencies, non-profit organizations, and official program websites, to ensure the accuracy of our content. Our goal is to be a trusted authority you can rely on for credible information.
  • Clarity & Accessibility: We understand that seeking financial assistance can be challenging. This guide is designed to be clear and easy to understand, breaking down complex topics into actionable steps.

While we work hard to provide the most accurate information available, please note that program details and eligibility requirements can change. We recommend always checking with the official program source or agency website for the most current information, as we are not official agencies but rather compile available information.

  • Last Updated: August 2025
  • Sources Verified: August 2025
  • Next Review: February 2026

If you find outdated information, discover new resources, or have questions, please contact us at info@grantsforseniors.org. We’re here to help seniors find resources that can make a real difference in their daily lives.

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About the Authors

Analic Mata-Murray

Analic Mata-Murray

Managing Editor

Analic Mata-Murray holds a Communications degree with a focus on Journalism and Advertising from Universidad Católica Andrés Bello. With over 11 years of experience as a volunteer translator for The Salvation Army, she has helped Spanish-speaking communities access critical resources and navigate poverty alleviation programs.

As Managing Editor at Grants for Seniors, Analic oversees all content to ensure accuracy and accessibility. Her bilingual expertise allows her to create and review content in both English and Spanish, specializing in community resources, housing assistance, and emergency aid programs.

Yolanda Taylor

Yolanda Taylor, BA Psychology

Senior Healthcare Editor

Yolanda Taylor is a Senior Healthcare Editor with over six years of clinical experience as a medical assistant in diverse healthcare settings, including OB/GYN, family medicine, and specialty clinics. She is currently pursuing her Bachelor's degree in Psychology at California State University, Sacramento.

At Grants for Seniors, Yolanda oversees healthcare-related content, ensuring medical accuracy and accessibility. Her clinical background allows her to translate complex medical terminology into clear guidance for seniors navigating Medicare, Medicaid, and dental care options. She is bilingual in Spanish and English and holds Lay Counselor certification and CPR/BLS certification.