The Veteran Foster Care Program, also known as Medical Foster Homes (MFH), offers a unique and personalized living arrangement for veterans needing long-term care. These programs provide a welcoming alternative to traditional nursing homes, offering a more intimate, home-like setting. In a veteran foster care program, trained caregivers open their private residences to a small number of individuals, some of whom are veterans, to provide dedicated support and assistance.
Understanding the Veteran Foster Care Program
A veteran foster care program distinguishes itself by operating within private homes rather than institutional facilities. These homes are staffed by committed caregivers, and relief caregivers, who offer continuous care and supervision, 24/7. Caregivers within a veteran foster care program are trained to assist veterans with daily living activities, such as personal hygiene and dressing, in accordance with VA-planned care protocols. Importantly, veterans participating in a veteran foster care program also continue to receive Home Based Primary Care from the VA.
VA Medical Centers with Medical Foster Home programs
To find out if a veteran foster care program is available near you, it’s recommended to consult with your VA social worker. Many VA facilities are actively developing or expanding their programs.
Veteran Foster Care Program in the Media
The positive impact of the veteran foster care program has been recognized in national publications:
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’
Interested in Becoming a Veteran Foster Care Provider?
If you’re considering becoming a caregiver in a veteran foster care program, the Medical Foster Home Checklist provides valuable information. Following review, you can connect with your local MFH Coordinator to begin the process.
Veteran Foster Care Program Spotlight: Greenville, Indiana
A CBS News feature highlighted a veteran foster care program in Greenville, Indiana, showcasing three veterans living alongside a family of eight.
Overview of the Veteran Foster Care Program
This video offers an overview of the veteran foster care program, including VA oversight and a tour of a Medical Foster Home, emphasizing the security and belonging it offers to veteran residents.
Eligibility for a Veteran Foster Care Program
To be eligible for a veteran foster care program, veterans must be enrolled in Home Based Primary Care (http://www.va.gov/GERIATRICS/pages/Home_Based_Primary_Care.asp) and there must be an available space in a certified home. Service availability can vary by location, and your VA social worker can provide specific guidance on eligibility for both Home Based Primary Care and the veteran foster care program.
It’s important to note that the VA does not directly pay for veteran foster care program costs. Veterans are responsible for covering the expenses, which typically range from $1,500 to $3,000 monthly, based on income and required care level. The specific cost is determined through mutual agreement between the veteran and the caregiver. Consulting with a VA social worker can help identify potential VA benefits that may assist with these costs.
Further information on financial aspects can be found in the Paying for Long Term Care section at www.va.gov/Geriatrics.
Services Provided in a Veteran Foster Care Program
Veterans in a veteran foster care program continue to receive VA Home Based Primary Care services. Additionally, caregivers offer a range of daily support services, including:
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:
- Provides reassurance through 24/7 care availability
- Creates a fulfilling environment for both caregiver and veteran
Determining if a Veteran Foster Care Program is Suitable
To assess whether a veteran foster care program is the right choice, the Veteran Decision Aid for Care at Home or in the Community is a helpful resource. This tool aids in evaluating various care options to match current and future needs.
The Caregiver Self-Assessment is also available to help caregivers evaluate their capacity to provide support. This self-assessment, combined with input from your care team and social worker, facilitates informed short and long-term care decisions.
These resources can be accessed through your social worker or downloaded from the Making Decisions page at www.va.gov/Geriatrics.
If a veteran foster care program aligns with your needs, your VA social worker can assist in locating a suitable home and navigating the necessary arrangements.
