ElderSource HelpLine
HelplineAging Services
Information, eligibility screening and referrals for older adults, adults with disabilities and caregivers. The first place to call when you don't know what you qualify for.
Volusia County Caregiver Resource Center
Your Map for Real Support
Caring for someone you love is one of the greatest gifts you can give — but it can also be one of the hardest. Some days are filled with joy. Other days can leave you feeling tired, worried, or unsure of where to turn.
You were never meant to do this alone.
You are not alone.Help is here, and our community is here to support you every step of the way.
Welcome
Everything in one place, so you don't have to search
This Caregiver Resource Center was created to help you find the support that's already here in Volusia County. Below you'll find local resources, practical information, and encouragement to help make your caregiving journey a little easier.
Where would you like to start?
Eight Ways We Can Help
Tap any section below. Every phone number on this site can be dialed with one tap from your phone.
Local Support Directory
Find adult day care centers, respite care, home care services, caregiver support groups, legal resources, and other community organizations throughout Volusia County.
Open sectionCaregiver Self-Care
Learn simple ways to care for yourself, reduce stress, prevent burnout, and maintain your own physical and emotional well-being while caring for someone else.
Open sectionNavigating Benefits
Find information about Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans benefits, Social Security, SHINE, ElderSource, and other programs that may help your family.
Open sectionMeals & Nutrition Programs
Locate home-delivered meals, senior dining sites, food pantries, churches, and nutrition programs available throughout Volusia County.
Open sectionTransportation Services
Discover transportation options for medical appointments, grocery shopping, pharmacies, adult day care, and other essential trips.
Open sectionWhen You Need Someone to Talk To
Connect with caregiver support groups, counseling resources, crisis support, educational programs, and organizations that understand the challenges of caregiving.
Open sectionEducational Resources
Access articles, videos, downloadable guides, and practical tips to help you become a more confident caregiver.
Open sectionEmergency & Quick Help
Keep important telephone numbers and websites in one place for quick access when you need immediate assistance or guidance.
Open section
A simple way to remember
The C.A.R.E. Method
Four reminders to carry with you on the hard days.
C
Care for yourself first
Your well-being is essential to providing quality care.
A
Ask for help
Reach out to family, friends, and community resources.
R
Rest and recharge
Take breaks, eat well, exercise, and get enough sleep.
E
Encourage yourself
Celebrate your successes, show yourself grace, and remember that every day you are making a positive difference.
You are not alone
Asking for help is a sign of strength
No one should have to walk the caregiving journey alone. We hope these resources provide not only information, but also peace of mind, encouragement, and hope.
Whether you're just beginning your journey or have been caring for a loved one for many years, remember that asking for help is a sign of strength.
You are not alone. Help is here, and our community is here to support you every step of the way.
Start here
Not sure where to begin?
The ElderSource HelpLine is the first place to call. Their specialists screen for eligibility and connect Volusia County families with the programs they qualify for — at no cost.
Home Local Support Directory
Local Support Directory
Find adult day care centers, respite care, home care services, caregiver support groups, legal resources, and other community organizations throughout Volusia County.
Filter
Starter directory for Volusia County · 8 resources listed
Florida Elder Helpline
HelplineAging Services
Connects families with local aging and disability services anywhere in Florida. Also the number to call to begin the Medicaid Long-Term Care process.
Sender Retreat
Adult Day CareRespite CareSupport GroupsMental HealthAging Services
Adult day care in DeLand for adults who need assistance in a supervised environment due to physical, emotional or mental impairments — serving seniors, veterans and individuals with disabilities. Daytime care gives family caregivers a dependable break, and the Foundation's mission adds caregiver support and education, respite services, wellness initiatives and community resources.
Mental health services every Monday at the center for older adults and caregivers — evaluations, anxiety & depression care, grief support, caregiver stress & burnout, individual counseling, and cognitive & emotional wellness screening. Full details on the Talk to Someone page.
Stay For A Day
Adult Day CareRespite CareDementia Care
Sender Retreat's sister adult day care center in Orange City. Therapeutic, restorative and rehabilitative programs in a supervised setting, with tailored care plans and daily activities for adults with physical, emotional or mental impairments. Staff are trained in Alzheimer's disease care, CPR and first aid, and speak English and Spanish.
Council on Aging of Volusia County
Aging ServicesRespite CareSupport Groups
Services may include meals, in-home assistance, respite, senior programs and caregiver support. Some qualified seniors may receive services without charge or with a modest copayment; private-pay services are also offered.
Council on Aging — Respite Program
Respite CareSupport Groups
Group and in-home respite options, plus caregiver support groups — so you can rest, run errands, or keep your own appointments.
Eligibility and availability should be confirmed directly with the program.
Alzheimer's Association — Central & North Florida Chapter
Dementia CareSupport GroupsHelpline
Serving families facing Alzheimer's disease and related dementias throughout Central and North Florida.
- Dementia education
- Caregiver support groups
- Local resource referrals
disAbility Solutions for Independent Living (DSIL)
Disability ServicesSupport GroupsHelpline
The Center for Independent Living serving people with disabilities of every age in Volusia and Flagler counties. Programs include advocacy, peer support, independent living skills training, information and referral, and community and youth transitions.
No resources match that search
Try a different word, or
This directory is still growing.
We are adding home care agencies, elder law attorneys, hospice providers, memory care and additional support groups across Volusia County. If your organization serves caregivers here, we'd like to include you.
Home Caregiver Self-Care
Caregiver Self-Care
Learn simple ways to care for yourself, reduce stress, prevent burnout, and maintain your own physical and emotional well-being while caring for someone else.
C
Care for yourself first
Your well-being is essential to providing quality care.
A
Ask for help
Reach out to family, friends, and community resources.
R
Rest and recharge
Take breaks, eat well, exercise, and get enough sleep.
E
Encourage yourself
Celebrate your successes, show yourself grace, and remember that every day you are making a positive difference.
Fifteen small things
Caregiver Self-Care Tips
🌿
Give yourself permission to rest
Taking a break isn't selfish — it's necessary. Even 15–30 minutes to recharge can help you become a better caregiver.
🤝
Don't be afraid to ask for help
Family, friends, neighbors, faith communities, and local organizations often want to help. Accepting help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
🧘
Practice mindfulness or prayer
Spend a few minutes each day praying, meditating, or simply taking slow, deep breaths. Quiet moments can reduce stress and restore peace.
🚶
Move your body
Take a short walk, stretch, dance to your favorite song, or do gentle exercises. Physical activity helps improve mood and reduce anxiety.
🥗
Nourish yourself
Eat balanced meals, stay hydrated, and don't skip meals. Your body needs fuel to care for someone else.
😴
Prioritize sleep
Sleep is essential for your health. If you're not sleeping well, ask your healthcare provider for advice and consider arranging respite care when possible.
💙
Stay connected
Talk with friends, family, or join a caregiver support group. You don't have to carry the burden alone.
📅
Schedule "me time"
Put time for yourself on your calendar just as you would a doctor's appointment. Read, garden, listen to music, enjoy a hobby, or simply relax.
😊
Celebrate small wins
Every act of love matters. Focus on what you accomplished today instead of what you couldn't do.
❤️
Take care of your health
Keep your own medical appointments, take your medications, and don't ignore your own symptoms.
📚
Keep learning
Understanding your loved one's condition can make caregiving less stressful and help you feel more confident.
🙏
Let go of perfection
No caregiver is perfect. Doing your best is enough.
🌸
Practice gratitude
At the end of each day, write down three things you're grateful for, even if they're small.
📱
Take a technology break
Turn off your phone for a little while each day to recharge mentally.
🌞
Spend time outdoors
Fresh air and sunshine can improve your mood and reduce stress.
“
You cannot pour from an empty cup. Taking care of yourself is one of the best ways to care for the person you love.Daily Encouragement
Keep these close
Words to Remember
It's okay to ask for help.
You deserve care, too.
Rest is productive.
Progress is better than perfection.
One day at a time.
You are making a difference.
Your health matters.
You are not alone.
Self-care is not selfish.
Every small act of kindness counts.
Rest is a resource, too
Respite care can give you a real break
Group and in-home respite is available through the Council on Aging of Volusia County, and adult day care gives you dependable daytime hours to rest, work, or take care of yourself.
Home Navigating Benefits
Navigating Benefits
Finding the right benefits and services can be confusing, but you don't have to do it alone. The organizations below can help you understand eligibility requirements, complete applications, and connect you with programs that support both caregivers and their loved ones.
ElderSource
Your first callAging & Disability Resource Center
ElderSource is the Aging and Disability Resource Center serving Volusia County. Their HelpLine is the best place to start if you don't know what programs you qualify for.
They can help you with:
- Caregiver support
- Long-term care programs
- Adult day care
- Respite care
- Medicare counseling
- Transportation
- Home-delivered meals
- Home care services
- Community resources
Medicare
Health Coverage
If you have questions about Medicare coverage, prescription drug plans, or Medicare Advantage plans, free counseling is available.
SHINE — Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elders
Free counselingMedicare
SHINE provides free, unbiased Medicare counseling. A SHINE counselor can help you:
- Compare Medicare plans
- Review prescription drug coverage
- Apply for Medicare Savings Programs
- Understand your Medicare options
To schedule a SHINE appointment in Volusia County:
Florida Medicaid
Health CoverageLong-Term Care
Florida Medicaid may help eligible individuals pay for healthcare, long-term care, home care, and community-based services.
Florida Long-Term Care Program
Stay at homeLong-Term Care
If your loved one needs help remaining safely at home, ask about Florida's Medicaid Long-Term Care Program. Services may include:
- Adult day health care
- Personal care
- Homemaker services
- Respite care
- Medical equipment
- Transportation
- Case management
To begin the process, call the Florida Elder Helpline:
Veterans Benefits (VA)
Veterans
Veterans and surviving spouses may qualify for benefits such as:
- VA Health Care
- Disability Compensation
- VA Pension
- Aid and Attendance
- Caregiver Support Program
- Home Health Services
- Adult Day Health Care
Social Security Administration
Income Benefits
For retirement, disability, SSI, or survivor benefits.
Council on Aging of Volusia County
Aging ServicesLocal
The Council on Aging offers programs and referrals that may include:
- Caregiver support
- Meals
- Transportation
- In-home assistance
- Community resources
Florida Department of Health — Volusia County
LocalCommunity Resources
Need help finding local services? The Department of Health provides access to county resources and the Volusia Helps directory, which lists food, transportation, housing, legal assistance, health care, disability services, and senior programs.
211 Community Resources
24 hoursImmediate assistance
Need immediate assistance? Call 211 to locate:
- Food assistance
- Housing
- Utility assistance
- Mental health services
- Financial assistance
- Caregiver resources
- Community programs
Need help navigating the system?
We'll help you find the right door to knock on
The Sender Retreat Foundation is committed to helping caregivers connect with the right resources. While we do not determine eligibility for government programs, we can help guide you toward trusted organizations that can answer your questions and assist you through the application process.
Asking for help is the first step toward becoming a stronger caregiver. You are not alone.
Home Meals & Nutrition
Meals, Nutrition & Food Assistance
No one should have to choose between caring for a loved one and putting food on the table. Volusia County has many organizations that provide nutritious meals, groceries, and emergency food assistance for seniors, caregivers, and families in need.
Senior nutrition programs
Meals on Wheels & Neighborhood Dining
Council on Aging of Volusia County
Home-delivered mealsDining sitesNutrition education
The Council on Aging provides home-delivered meals (Meals on Wheels), neighborhood dining sites, nutrition education, and wellness programs for eligible older adults.
Neighborhood dining sites include locations in:
Call 211
DeLandOrange CityOrmond BeachNew Smyrna Beach
Call the Council on Aging to determine eligibility and the dining site nearest you.
Food pantries & free meals
When & Where to Go
Days and hours change. Please call ahead before you drive.
Call for current hours
DeLand
Neighborhood Center of West Volusia
Emergency food assistance and additional support services for individuals and families.
Wednesdays · 1:00–2:00 p.m.
Tuesdays · 9:00–10:00 a.m.
1st & 3rd Thursday · 8:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
Orange City
Orange City United Methodist Church
Food pantry. Emergency food assistance is also available by calling the church.
Wednesdays · 9:00–11:00 a.m.
DeBary
Community United Methodist Church
Food pantry, plus a hot breakfast on the third Saturday of every month.
3rd Wednesday · from 11:00 a.m.
Deltona
Deltona Christian Church
Food pantry — begins at 11:00 a.m. until food runs out.
Every other Tuesday · 9:00–11:00 a.m.
3rd Thursday · 3:00–5:30 p.m.
Need food today?
A specialist can direct you to the closest food assistance available:
- Food pantries
- Soup kitchens
- Emergency groceries
- Meals for seniors
- Community meal programs
Find a Food Pantry Near You
Full county directory
The Florida Department of Health maintains a frequently updated directory of food pantries and meal programs throughout Volusia County — including Daytona Beach, DeLand, Deltona, Orange City, Port Orange, New Smyrna Beach, Ormond Beach, Edgewater, and DeBary. The directory includes addresses, phone numbers, and the days and hours food is distributed.
Helpful nutrition tips for caregivers
Small Habits That Protect You Both
- Keep healthy snacks available for both you and your loved one.
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
- Don't skip meals while caring for someone else.
- Ask family or friends to help with grocery shopping when needed.
- Use community meal programs if preparing meals becomes difficult.
- Speak with your healthcare provider or a registered dietitian if your loved one has diabetes, kidney disease, swallowing problems, or has experienced significant weight loss.
“
Good nutrition supports strength, healing, independence, and quality of life. If you or your loved one are struggling to obtain healthy food, help is available.Don't hesitate to reach out
Home Transportation
Transportation Services
Reliable transportation helps older adults remain independent, attend medical appointments, shop for groceries, participate in social activities, and stay connected to their community.
Votran — Volusia County Public Transportation
Public busCountywide
Votran is Volusia County's public transportation system. It provides fixed-route buses throughout the county and is an affordable way to travel to medical appointments, grocery stores, pharmacies, shopping centers, restaurants, libraries, community centers, adult day care programs, employment, and government offices.
Standard bus service operates throughout Volusia County, including:
VoRide — On-Demand Transportation
DeLandOrange CityDeltonaDeBaryDaytona BeachOrmond BeachPort OrangeNew Smyrna BeachEdgewater
Most buses are wheelchair accessible.
On-demandShared ride
VoRide is an affordable, shared ride service available in many parts of Volusia County. Perfect for trips to grocery stores, pharmacies, doctor appointments, restaurants, shopping, and visits with friends and family.
West Volusia service includes:
VoAccess (formerly Votran Gold)
DeLandOrange CityDeBaryDeltona
Reservations can be made through the mobile app or by telephone.
Door-to-doorParatransit
VoAccess provides door-to-door transportation for people who cannot use the regular bus because of a disability — for medical appointments, dialysis, grocery shopping, adult day care, employment, and personal errands.
Who qualifies? Individuals who:
- Have a physical disability
- Have a cognitive disability
- Cannot safely use the regular bus service
A completed application and eligibility review are required. Reservations should generally be made at least one day in advance. Current fare is approximately $3.50 each way.
Medicaid Transportation
May be no costMedical trips
If your loved one has Florida Medicaid, transportation to covered medical appointments may be available at no cost. Contact the Medicaid Transportation provider listed on your Medicaid plan, or call the Florida Medicaid Helpline.
Council on Aging of Volusia County
ReferralsLocal
The Council on Aging can help connect seniors with transportation resources and other community services — including transportation referrals, senior services, meals, and caregiver support.
Start with ElderSource
Not sure which program?
If you're unsure which transportation program is right for your loved one, ElderSource specialists can help determine which services you may qualify for.
Transportation tips for caregivers
Make the Trip Easier
- Schedule medical transportation several days in advance whenever possible.
- Ask whether wheelchair-accessible transportation is available when making your reservation.
- Bring your insurance card, identification, and medication list to appointments.
- Keep a list of frequently used transportation phone numbers in an easy-to-find place.
- If your loved one needs assistance during the ride, ask whether a companion or personal care attendant may accompany them.
“
Lack of transportation should never prevent someone from receiving medical care, buying groceries, or participating in community activities.If one program cannot meet your needs, another may be available
Home Someone to Talk To
When You Need Someone to Talk To
Being a caregiver is one of the most meaningful roles a person can have, but it can also be physically and emotionally exhausting. You do not have to carry the responsibility alone. Volusia County offers organizations that provide support, guidance, education, and someone who will listen.
Answered around the clock
Someone Is Awake Right Now
211 Community Helpline
24 hours a day
Need someone to help you find resources today? Simply dial 211. A trained specialist can help connect you with:
- Counseling services
- Caregiver resources
- Food assistance
- Utility assistance
- Housing resources
- Crisis support
- Mental health services
Alzheimer's Association 24/7 Helpline
24/7 HelplineDementia
If you are caring for someone with Alzheimer's disease or another form of dementia, trained specialists are available day and night. They can provide:
- Emotional support
- Dementia education
- Caregiving tips
- Local support group information
- Community referrals
Veterans Caregiver Support Line
VeteransCaregiver Support
If your loved one is a Veteran, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs offers caregiver support, education, coaching, and referrals.
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
Crisis support24/7
For anyone experiencing a mental health crisis — including caregivers. Call or text 988 to reach a trained crisis counselor, free and confidential, any time of day or night.
Local caregiver support
Guidance From People Who Know Volusia
ElderSource Caregiver Support
Best place to begin
ElderSource is the best place to begin if you are feeling overwhelmed or need guidance. Their trained specialists help caregivers connect with local resources, respite care, support programs, transportation, Medicare counseling, and other community services.
They can help you:
- Find caregiver support programs
- Learn about respite care
- Locate support groups
- Connect with counseling resources
- Find educational workshops
- Navigate long-term care services
Council on Aging of Volusia County
LocalReferrals
The Council on Aging of Volusia offers caregiver information, referrals, senior services, and can connect families with community resources and respite options.
Mental Health Services at Sender Retreat
Mental HealthEvery Monday
Sender Retreat offers compassionate mental health support for older adults and caregivers every Monday at the center.
Services include:
- Mental health evaluations
- Anxiety & depression care
- Grief support
- Caregiver stress & burnout
- Individual counseling
- Cognitive & emotional wellness screening
Provider: Vanessa Balous, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC
Need to Talk to a Counselor?
CounselingVolusia County
Speaking with a licensed mental health professional can help reduce stress, anxiety, caregiver burnout, and depression. Examples of counseling services in Volusia County include:
- Be Kind To Mind Counseling
- A Safe Space Mental Health Counseling and Wellness LLC
These organizations provide counseling services for individuals and families. Contact them directly to ask about appointments, insurance, or self-pay options.
Check in with yourself
Caregiver Burnout Warning Signs
If you notice these symptoms, it may be time to ask for help.
- Feeling overwhelmed every day
- Trouble sleeping
- Constant fatigue
- Anxiety or depression
- Irritability
- Feeling alone
- Loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed
- Changes in appetite
- Frequent illness
- Feeling guilty when taking a break
Remember: asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Daily encouragement
Take a Few Moments Each Day
- Take five slow, deep breaths.
- Call a friend or family member.
- Spend a few minutes outside.
- Pray or meditate.
- Read something inspirational.
- Take a short walk.
- Accept help when it is offered.
- Celebrate one small success every day.
You are not alone
Reaching out is the first step
Caregiving is a journey that no one should travel by themselves. There are people in our community who understand your challenges and are ready to help — for both your loved one and yourself.
Home Educational Resources
Educational Resources
Access articles, videos, downloadable guides, and practical tips to help you become a more confident caregiver.
We're building this library now.
Articles, videos and printable guides for Volusia County caregivers are being gathered and reviewed. Check back soon — and in the meantime, the two organizations below already offer excellent free caregiver education.
Articles
Short, plain-language reading on the conditions and decisions caregivers face most.
Videos
Watch a technique demonstrated rather than reading about it — safe transfers, bathing, medication routines.
Downloadable Guides
Printable checklists and worksheets you can keep on the refrigerator or bring to appointments.
Practical Tips
Quick answers to the everyday questions that come up between appointments.
In the meantime
Two organizations already publish excellent caregiver education
Both offer free classes, printed guides and trained staff who will talk you through what you're facing.
Home Emergency & Quick Help
Emergency & Quick Help
Keep important telephone numbers and websites in one place for quick access when you need immediate assistance or guidance. Print this page and put it on the refrigerator.
Caregiver Quick-Reference Card
Volusia County, Florida · Sender Retreat Cares
Life-threatening emergencyChest pain, stroke symptoms, a fall with injury, trouble breathing
911
988 Suicide & Crisis LifelineMental health crisis — for you or your loved one · 24/7 · call or text
988
211 Community HelplineFood, housing, utilities, crisis and caregiver resources · 24 hours a day
211
ElderSource HelpLineEligibility screening & referrals · Mon–Fri 8am–5pm · Start here
1-888-242-4464
Alzheimer's Association HelplineDementia support and caregiving guidance · 24 hours a day
1-800-272-3900
VA Caregiver Support LineSupport, education and coaching for caregivers of Veterans
1-855-260-3274
Florida Elder HelplineLocal aging & disability services · Medicaid Long-Term Care intake
1-800-963-5337
Council on Aging of Volusia CountyMeals, in-home assistance, respite, senior programs
386-253-4700
Council on Aging — Respite ProgramGroup and in-home respite · caregiver support groups
386-262-5247
Florida Dept. of Health — Volusia CountyCounty resources & the Volusia Helps directory
386-274-0500
MedicareCoverage, drug plans, Medicare Advantage · medicare.gov
1-800-633-4227
Florida MedicaidHealthcare, long-term care, home & community services
1-866-762-2237
Social Security AdministrationRetirement, disability, SSI, survivor benefits · ssa.gov
1-800-772-1213
U.S. Department of Veterans AffairsHealth care, pension, Aid & Attendance · va.gov
1-800-827-1000
Votran Customer ServiceFixed-route bus service · votran.org
386-756-7496
VoAccess — West VolusiaDoor-to-door paratransit · Greater Daytona 386-322-5100 · SE Volusia 386-424-6810
386-943-7050
Medicaid Transportation HelplineRides to covered medical appointments
1-877-254-1055
Sender Retreat — Adult Day Care & Mental Health1270 Orange Camp Rd, DeLand FL 32724 · Mon–Fri 9:30am–3pm · mental health services Mondays
386-734-4442
Stay For A Day — Adult Day Care1001 TownCenter Drive, Orange City FL 32763
386-851-0691
disAbility Solutions for Independent Living (DSIL)Advocacy, peer support & independent-living skills · Volusia & Flagler · TTY 386-252-6222
386-255-1812
Fill in your own numbers
Primary doctor
Specialist
Pharmacy
Home care agency
Insurance / plan ID
Family contact
Neighbor with a key
Allergies & conditions