Home Care Options for Veterans and Their Families

Veterans have earned benefits that can help with in-home care, but many families are not aware of what is available or how to access it. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers several programs that may help cover the cost of care for Veterans and their surviving spouses.

This article provides an overview of the main options. It is general information, not a guarantee of eligibility. VA benefits and eligibility requirements change over time. For current information, contact the VA or a Veterans service organization.

VA Aid and Attendance

The Aid and Attendance benefit is one of the most well-known VA programs for in-home care. It provides additional monthly payments to Veterans and surviving spouses who need help with daily activities.

Who May Qualify

• ✓A Veteran who served at least 90 days of active duty, with at least one day during a wartime period (as defined by the VA)
• ✓The Veteran or surviving spouse needs help with daily activities (bathing, dressing, toileting, etc.) or is bedridden, or has limited eyesight, or is a patient in a nursing home due to mental or physical incapacity
• ✓Income and net worth requirements must be met (the VA adjusts these limits periodically)

How It Works

• ✓The benefit is a monthly pension supplement, not a reimbursement
• ✓The additional money can be used for any purpose, including in-home care
• ✓The benefit amount depends on the Veteran's or surviving spouse's situation, income, and other factors

How to Apply

• ✓Apply through the VA, either online at VA.gov, by mail, or in person at a VA regional office
• ✓You will need the Veteran's discharge papers (DD214), marriage certificate (for surviving spouses), and medical records documenting the need for care
• ✓A Veterans Service Organization (VSO) can help with the application at no cost

Things to Know

• ✓The application process can take several months
• ✓Benefits may be retroactive to the date of application
• ✓The benefit does not cover the full cost of care for most people, but it can significantly reduce the burden
• ✓Income and asset limits apply and can be complex. Consult a VA-accredited representative for guidance

VA Homemaker and Home Health Aide Care

The VA offers homemaker and home health aide services for eligible Veterans who need help with daily activities.

What It Covers

• ✓Help with bathing, dressing, and grooming
• ✓Meal preparation
• ✓Light housekeeping
• ✓Medication reminders
• ✓Respite for family caregivers

How It Works

• ✓Care is provided through VA-approved home care agencies
• ✓The VA pays the agency directly
• ✓A VA care coordinator determines eligibility and the level of care

Eligibility

• ✓The Veteran must be enrolled in VA health care
• ✓The Veteran must need help with daily activities
• ✓The Veteran must meet clinical criteria for the program
• ✓Availability may vary by VA facility and location

Veteran-Directed Care

Veteran-Directed Care is a program that gives Veterans more control over their care.

How It Works

• ✓The Veteran receives a budget for home and community-based services
• ✓The Veteran (or their representative) chooses and directs their own care, including hiring caregivers
• ✓The Veteran can hire family members as caregivers (with some restrictions)
• ✓A counselor helps manage the budget and services

Eligibility

• ✓The Veteran must be enrolled in VA health care
• ✓The Veteran must need help with daily activities
• ✓The program is available in specific VA locations

VA Respite Care

Respite care gives family caregivers a temporary break while ensuring their loved one is cared for.

What It Covers

• ✓In-home respite: A caregiver comes to the home
• ✓Adult day health care: The Veteran attends a program during the day
• ✓Short-term residential respite: The Veteran stays in a care facility for a few days or weeks

How It Works

• ✓The VA covers the cost of respite care
• ✓A VA care coordinator determines eligibility and the amount of respite available
• ✓Respite is typically limited to a certain number of days per year

Other VA Programs

Geriatrics and Extended Care

The VA offers a range of extended care services for aging Veterans, including:

• ✓Home-based primary care
• ✓Skilled home health
• ✓Palliative care
• ✓Hospice care

Community Care

If VA facilities are not conveniently located, the VA may authorize care through community providers under the MISSION Act. This may include in-home care from non-VA agencies.

State Veterans Homes

Many states operate Veterans homes that provide skilled nursing care, assisted living, and sometimes adult day care. These are not operated by the federal VA but may receive some VA funding.

How to Get Started

Step 1: Enroll in VA Health Care

If your loved one is not already enrolled, start by enrolling in VA health care. You can apply at VA.gov, by phone, by mail, or in person at a VA facility.

Step 2: Contact a VA Care Coordinator

Once enrolled, ask to speak with a VA social worker or care coordinator. They can help you understand what programs your loved one may qualify for and how to access them.

Step 3: Work With a Veterans Service Organization

VSOs like the American Legion, VFW, and DAV provide free assistance with VA claims and applications. They can help you navigate the process and avoid common mistakes.

Step 4: Gather Documents

You will likely need:

• ✓The Veteran's DD214 (discharge papers)
• ✓Marriage certificate (for surviving spouses)
• ✓Medical records documenting the need for care
• ✓Financial records (for income-based programs)

Step 5: Contact a Care Provider

If you plan to use in-home care, contact a care provider that works with VA programs or that can accept Aid and Attendance payments. A free care assessment can help you understand what care is needed and how to coordinate with VA benefits.

See our Veterans program page for more information about how Healthy at Home works with Veterans and their families.

Important Notes

• ✓VA benefits do not guarantee coverage of all care costs
• ✓Eligibility varies by program, and some programs have waiting lists
• ✓The application process can take time, so start early
• ✓Benefits and eligibility requirements change over time
• ✓This article is general information, not a guarantee of eligibility

For current and specific information, contact the VA directly at 800-827-1000 or visit VA.gov.

A Final Note

Veterans have earned benefits that can make a real difference in their ability to receive care at home. But navigating the VA system can be complex. Start by enrolling, talking with a VA care coordinator, and working with a VSO. And do not hesitate to ask for help.

If you would like help understanding how in-home care works with VA benefits, Healthy at Home offers a free care assessment. We can help you coordinate care with VA programs and navigate the process.