The VA offers several nursing home options for veterans who need round-the-clock care. Here is how they work.
Types of VA nursing home care
The VA provides nursing home care through three main avenues. Community Living Centers are VA-operated facilities offering short- and long-term skilled care. Community nursing homes are private facilities the VA contracts with, allowing veterans to receive care closer to home. State veterans homes are owned and operated by states with VA support and grants. Eligibility and cost depend on your service-connected disability status, clinical need, and priority group; veterans with higher service-connected ratings often receive care at little or no cost. For those using private nursing homes, Aid and Attendance pension can help cover the bill. Call 1-800-MEDIGAP to understand which option fits.
How nursing home benefits work with Medicare and pension
VA nursing home benefits, Medicare, and the VA pension can work together. Medicare covers limited short-term skilled nursing care after a qualifying hospital stay but does not pay for long-term custodial care. The VA may cover nursing home care based on service connection and need, while Aid and Attendance provides tax-free cash that can be applied to a private nursing home when VA coverage is limited or unavailable. Coordinating these correctly prevents gaps and unexpected bills. As the trusted toll-free for all things senior in America, 1-800-MEDIGAP can help you align VA nursing home benefits, Medicare, and pension.