If you, a spouse or a loved one (such as a sibling or parent) served in the armed forces, is over the age of 62 and is in need of assisted living accommodations, you or they may qualify for residency in one of the Veterans Homes of California. As the name implies, a Veterans Care Home is a care residence for military veterans and their spouses.
There are currently eight Veterans Homes across the state of California. They are in:
- Chula Vista
- Fresno
- Lancaster
- Redding
- Ventura
- West LA
- Yountville
- Barstow
These homes offer a wide level of care, including independent care, assisted living and skilled nursing care. Seniors who are able to take care of themselves are best qualified for independent care, where they will receive meals and utilities and be able to engage in a variety of activities with their fellow veterans.
Those who require some help in performing daily activities are more suited for assisted living, where skilled workers help residents with things like dressing, bathing, grooming, medication and more.
Many veterans may require the care of licensed nurses who can provide therapy, rehabilitation or more direct medical care. These veterans will likely need to be placed in a skilled nursing facility.
When seeking residency in a Veterans Care Home in California, seniors and their family members should be aware that the placement process can be challenging. Even though several additional Veterans Homes are under construction, California is still considered in great need of additional Veterans Homes.
Unfortunately, with only eight communities in California, you may have to wait up to three years for a spot to open up. Wait times are usually shorter for independent living and skilled nursing openings.
Spouses of military veterans in need of assistance or skilled nursing are able to accompany their significant other to a Veterans Care Home, but they must apply separately. Individuals who seeks residency in a Veterans Care Home should be prepared to share a room with another occupant; very few Veterans Homes offer private rooms.
Pets are generally not accepted, so family members may have to make plans to take care of any pet that might get left behind. Personal items allowed, including vehicles, are limited, so it is a good idea to go through a veteran’s possessions carefully and only bring items that have a high importance or sentimental value.
Lastly, when considering a Veterans Home, it is always a good idea to contact Care Placement. Our placement specialists can tell you more about veteran care and can actively assist you in the application process to make sure you or your loved one finds the best situation possible.