What does DARS mean in REHABILITATION

DARS is an umbrella agency with seven distinct programs designed to assist Virginians with disabilities, promote independent living and provide aging services. These programs help individuals access employment-related services, independent living centers, vocational rehabilitation counselors and information on long-term care options.

The DARS provides a range of service from job training to accessing independent living centers. The seven distinct program areas include Vocational Rehabilitation, Older Blind Services Program, Supported Employment Services Program, Assistive Technology Program, Community Inclusion Services Program, Aging and Disability Resources Center and Independent Living Centers.

To determine eligibility for services through DARS please contact your local office or visit their website at www.dars.virginia.gov/drs/index.shtml to fill out a pre-application to start the process.

Yes, depending on your individual situation you may be eligible for some types of financial assistance such as the Cost Participation Grant or some other forms of funding that can help pay for an approved service or program that will help you reach your employment goals.

Yes! The Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) program offers numerous job training opportunities including supported employment services for individuals with significant disabilities who need additional support in order to be successful in competitive employment situations.

The Assistive Technology Program works with people who have disabilities to acquire needed assistive technology devices and services so they can increase their independence and self-sufficiency in their day-to-day life activities or work scenarios. This can include equipment like prosthetics, wheelchairs or software applications that can assist those with communication disorders or impairments with the aim of helping them live a better quality of life.

The Older Blind Service (OBS) program is specifically designed to assist older adults who are age 55 or over who are legally blind and want to learn how to adapt to everyday tasks without sighted assistance. They also offer ophthalmology screenings as well as home visits from specially trained staff members who provide instruction on independent living skills such as cooking and personal hygiene techniques that will give back some autonomy.

Yes! The CIS division helps people transition from nursing homes back into their community settings by providing consulting and technical support in areas such as housing supports, community integration activities that foster socialization as well as promoting greater independence while remaining safe in one’s own home environment.

Yes! Depending on your situation you may be eligible for assistance with travel costs if you require transportation throughout Virginia due to medical appointments related to your disability or if you need rides because you lack reliable transportation due its cost or geographic location then there are options available through partnerships between private companies like Uber Health or MTA Mobility Access Passes.