An alternative to a nursing home
Medical Foster Homes are private residences where a trained caregiver provides services to no more than three individuals. Some, but not all, residents are Veterans. VA inspects and approves all Medical Foster Homes.
A Medical Foster Home can serve as an alternative to a nursing home. It may be appropriate for Veterans who require nursing home care but prefer a non-institutional setting with fewer residents.
Medical Foster Home caregivers and relief caregivers provide care and supervision 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Caregivers can help Veterans carry out activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing and administering medications. Caregivers also provide home-cooked meals, socialization and overall support.
VA ensures the caregiver is trained to provide VA-planned care. VA completes initial and annual inspections of the home from multiple disciplines, including fire/safety, nursing, nutrition and social work. These inspections help ensure the caregivers are able and qualified to provide the care the Veterans need.
Medical Foster Home Veterans are also enrolled in VA’s Home Based Primary Care program. Services may vary by location. A VA social worker or case manager can help with eligibility guidelines for Home Based Primary Care and Medical Foster Home care.
Veteran pays for Foster Home care
Medical Foster Homes are not provided or paid for by VA.
Veterans privately pay for Medical Foster Home. The charge for a Medical Foster Home ranges from $1,500 to $3,000 each month, based on the Veteran’s income and the level of care needed. The Veteran and caregiver agree on a specific cost before admitting the Veteran.
VA works with the Veterans to maximize their VA benefits for the payment. Medical Foster Home program coordinators work with eligible Veterans to apply for Aid and Attendance benefits.
Veterans can use these benefits, along with any Social Security or personal funds, to cover the costs of Medical Foster Home care.
Click here to see if your VA facility has a Medical Foster Home program.
This list includes the VA medical centers that operate a Medical Foster Home program. However, many facilities are in various stages of development of their programs. Please reach out to your VA social worker to ask when a Medical Foster Home will be available at your local facility.
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