Medical Foster Homes offer a unique and supportive living arrangement for veterans needing long-term care. Stepping away from traditional institutional settings, the Veterans Foster Care Program provides a warm, family-like environment within private homes. This option is particularly beneficial for veterans who require nursing home level care but thrive better in a more intimate, non-institutional atmosphere.
Understanding Medical Foster Homes
Medical Foster Homes (MFHs) are private residences where trained caregivers offer round-the-clock supervision and assistance to a small number of individuals, some of whom are veterans. These dedicated caregivers are equipped to help veterans with daily activities, including personal hygiene and dressing, ensuring their comfort and well-being. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) ensures that these caregivers are thoroughly trained to deliver planned care, and veterans in MFHs receive Home Based Primary Care services.
For those seeking local programs, the VA provides a list of participating medical centers:
VA Medical Centers with Medical Foster Home programs
This list is continuously updated as more VA facilities develop their programs. It’s recommended to consult with a VA social worker to get the most current information on availability in your area.
Medical Foster Homes in the Spotlight
The positive impact of Veterans Foster Care Programs has been recognized nationally:
Southern Living: Foster Families for Veterans Keep America’s Heroes in the Homes They Deserve
People Magazine: Indiana Family of Eight Fosters Three Veterans Who Are Disabled: ‘We’re One Big Family Now’
These stories highlight the compassionate care and familial atmosphere that Veterans Foster Care Programs provide, offering a glimpse into the lives touched by this initiative.
Considering Becoming a Medical Foster Home Caregiver?
If you’re interested in opening your home and heart to a veteran, becoming an MFH caregiver can be a rewarding experience. Start by reviewing the Medical Foster Home Checklist for detailed information. Then, connect with your local MFH Coordinator to discuss the next steps.
A Real-Life Example: Medical Foster Home in Greenville, Indiana
In Greenville, Indiana, a family of eight has expanded to include three war veterans, creating a unique and supportive intergenerational living situation through the Medical Foster Home Program.
Program Overview: Understanding the Veterans Foster Care Program
This video provides an overview of the Veterans Foster Care Program, detailing the VA’s oversight and offering a tour of a Medical Foster Home. As a resident shares, it fosters “more security, more feeling of belonging,” underscoring the program’s core benefits.
Veterans Foster Care Program Eligibility
To be eligible for a Medical Foster Home within the Veterans Foster Care Program, enrollment in Home Based Primary Care is necessary, and availability within a home is required. It’s important to note that services can vary by location. Your VA social worker or case manager can provide specific eligibility guidelines for both Home Based Primary Care and Medical Foster Home placement.
While the VA does not directly pay for Medical Foster Home costs, veterans are responsible for covering these expenses, potentially through insurance or personal funds. Costs range from approximately $1,500 to $3,000 monthly, depending on income and required care level. The exact cost is determined through mutual agreement between the veteran and the Medical Foster Home caregiver.
It’s crucial to discuss potential VA benefits with a social worker or case manager that could assist with Medical Foster Home expenses. Further information on financial aspects can be found in the Paying for Long Term Care section at www.va.gov/Geriatrics.
Services Offered in Veterans Foster Care Programs
Veterans in Medical Foster Homes continue to receive Home Based Primary Care services. Additionally, MFH caregivers provide a range of essential support services:
For Veterans:
- Assistance with daily living activities (bathing, dressing, etc.)
- Medication management support
- Basic nursing assistance
- Provision of all meals
- Organized social and recreational activities
For Caregivers:
- 24/7 caregiving support, offering peace of mind
- An enriched living environment with companionship
Is a Veterans Foster Care Program Right for You?
To aid in making informed decisions about long-term care, the Veteran Decision Aid for Care at Home or in the Community is a valuable resource. This tool helps assess individual needs and determine suitable care options, whether at home or within a community setting.
Caregivers can also benefit from the Caregiver Self-Assessment. This assessment helps caregivers evaluate their capacity to provide support and identify their own needs in the caregiving role. Utilizing these resources in conjunction with your care team and social worker facilitates well-informed short and long-term care decisions.
Consult your social worker to access these resources or download them directly from the Making Decisions page at www.va.gov/Geriatrics. If a Veterans Foster Care Home appears to be a suitable option, your VA social worker can assist in locating a home and navigating the arrangement process.
