The Veteran Foster Care Program, often referred to as Medical Foster Homes (MFH), offers a unique and compassionate housing solution for veterans needing long-term care. Stepping away from the traditional institutional setting of nursing homes, this program provides a warm, family-like environment within private residences. Specially trained caregivers open their homes to a small number of individuals, some of whom are veterans, to provide personalized care. This model is particularly beneficial for veterans who require nursing home level care but thrive better in a more intimate, non-institutional home setting.
Medical Foster Homes are private homes where dedicated caregivers and relief staff offer round-the-clock care and supervision, 365 days a year. These caregivers are trained to assist veterans with daily living activities, including personal hygiene and dressing, ensuring their comfort and dignity are maintained. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) plays a crucial role by ensuring caregivers are thoroughly trained and equipped to deliver VA-planned care. Veterans in Medical Foster Homes also benefit from Home Based Primary Care, bringing healthcare services directly to their doorstep.
VA Medical Centers with Medical Foster Home programs
This link provides a list of VA Medical Centers currently participating in the Medical Foster Home program. It’s worth noting that many other VA facilities are actively developing their programs. If you are interested in exploring this option at your local VA, reaching out to your VA social worker is the best first step to get the most up-to-date information.
Veteran Foster Care Program in the Spotlight
The positive impact of veteran foster care programs has garnered national attention:
Southern Living: Foster Families for Veterans Keep America’s Heroes in the Homes They Deserve
This article highlights the heartwarming aspect of the program, emphasizing how it allows veterans to receive care in a home environment they deserve.
People Magazine: Indiana Family of Eight Fosters Three Veterans Who Are Disabled: ‘We’re One Big Family Now’
This story showcases a remarkable example of an Indiana family who opened their hearts and home to three disabled veterans, creating a large, supportive family unit.
Considering Becoming a Veteran Foster Caregiver?
If you’re inspired to become a Veteran Foster Home Caregiver, the first step is to review the Medical Foster Home Checklist for detailed information about the responsibilities and requirements. Following this, connect with your local MFH Coordinator to discuss the process further.
Real Stories: Veteran Foster Care in Action
This CBS News video segment shares the touching story of a Medical Foster Home in Greenville, Indiana, where three veterans live with a caregiver family, illustrating the program’s real-life impact. The alt text for this image is “Two veterans engaging in conversation with their caregiver in the comfortable living room of their medical foster home.”
Three people sitting on a porch with a dog
Gain a comprehensive understanding of the Veteran Foster Care Program and the VA’s oversight role through this informative video. Take a virtual tour of a Medical Foster Home and hear firsthand from a resident about the enhanced security and sense of belonging the program provides. The alt text for this image is “Three individuals, including a veteran and his caregivers, relaxing on the porch of a medical foster home with a dog, symbolizing companionship and a home-like atmosphere.”
Veteran Foster Care Program Eligibility
It’s important to understand that Veteran Foster Homes are not directly provided or financially covered by the VA. Eligibility for placement in a Veteran Foster Home is contingent on enrollment in Home Based Primary Care and the availability of a suitable home. Service availability can vary depending on location. Your dedicated VA social worker or case manager is your best resource for detailed eligibility criteria for both Home Based Primary Care and Veteran Foster Care.
Financial responsibility for Veteran Foster Home care rests with the veteran or through other insurance coverage. Monthly costs typically range from $1,500 to $3,000, influenced by income and required care level. Crucially, the specific cost is transparently agreed upon between the veteran and the Medical Foster Home caregiver beforehand.
Consult with your VA social worker or case manager to explore potential VA benefits that could help offset the costs associated with Veteran Foster Care.
For more in-depth information on financial aspects, visit the Paying for Long Term Care section at www.va.gov/Geriatrics.
The alt text for this image is “A thoughtful middle-aged woman considering care options, representing veterans and families exploring the veteran foster care program.”
Services Offered in Veteran Foster Care
Veterans residing in Medical Foster Homes continue to receive comprehensive Home Based Primary Care services. Additionally, dedicated caregivers provide a range of essential services, including:
For Veterans:
- Assistance with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs): Support with personal care tasks such as bathing, dressing, and mobility.
- Medication Management: Help with medication reminders and administration.
- Nursing Assistance: Some level of skilled nursing care, as needed and planned by the VA.
- Nutritious Meals: Provision of all daily meals, catering to dietary needs.
- Social and Recreational Activities: Planned activities to promote social engagement and well-being.
For Caregivers:
- Peace of Mind: Knowing the veteran is receiving consistent, 24/7 care in a safe environment.
- Meaningful Connection: Opportunities to build a rewarding and fulfilling relationship with the veteran.
Is Veteran Foster Care the Right Choice?
To aid in making informed decisions about long-term care options, veterans and their families can utilize the Veteran Decision Aid for Care at Home or in the Community. This resource helps evaluate different care settings and services to best meet current and future needs.
Caregivers can also benefit from the Caregiver Self-Assessment. This tool helps caregivers assess their capacity to provide support and identify their own needs, ensuring a sustainable caregiving arrangement. Sharing this self-assessment information with the veteran’s care team and social worker promotes collaborative and well-informed short-term and long-term care decisions.
Your VA social worker is a valuable resource for accessing these tools and exploring Veteran Foster Care further. They can assist in locating available homes and navigating the necessary arrangements if Veteran Foster Care appears to be a suitable option.
