As a Veteran, you may be able to get assisted living, residential (live-in), or home health care through VA. Find out how to access these long-term care services.

What kinds of long-term care services does VA offer for sick or disabled Veterans?

Our long-term care services include:

• 24/7 nursing and medical care
• Physical therapy
• Help with daily tasks (like bathing, dressing, making meals, and taking medicine)
• Comfort care and help with managing pain
• Support for caregivers who may need skilled help or a break so they can work, travel, or run errands

You can get this care in many different settings—some run by VA and others run by state or community organizations that we inspect and approve.

Care settings may include:

• Nursing homes
• Assisted-living centers
• Private homes where a caregiver supports a small group of individuals
• Adult day health centers
• Veterans’ own homes

You can learn more about the different types of care below or see our guide to long-term services and supports.

How do I access these services?

You may be able to use one or more of these services if you meet all of the requirements listed below.

All of these must be true:

• You’re signed up for VA health care, and
• We conclude that you need a specific service to help with your ongoing treatment and personal care, and
• The service (or space in the care setting) is available near you

We may also consider other factors, like your service-connected disability status or insurance coverage.

To find out how to access these services, contact your VA social worker. Or, call our toll-free hotline at 877-222-8387, Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. ET.

If you’re not currently in the VA health care program, you can apply for benefits now.
Apply now

Does VA pay for these services?

We cover some of these services under your standard health benefits if you’re signed up for VA health care. You may still need to pay a copay for some covered services.
Apply for VA health care

Other services aren’t covered under VA health care benefits. For these services, you may be able to pay through Medicaid, Medicare, or your own private insurance.

Learn more about paying for long-term care

Where can I get more information and support?

• Get help setting goals and priorities and making tough decisions about things like long-term care.
  Learn more about the shared decision-making process
• Find services and resources to help with geriatric (elder) and long-term care.
  Find services
• Get more information about geriatric and long-term care as well as how to deal with diseases like Alzheimer’s and dementia.
  Visit the geriatrics section of VA.gov

More information about your benefits

• Health care benefits eligibility

  Not sure if you qualify? Find out if you can get VA health care benefits.

• How to apply for health care benefits

  Ready to apply? Get started now.

• Health needs and conditions

  Find out how to access VA services for mental health, women’s health, and other specific needs.

• Disability benefits

  Have an illness or injury that was caused—or made worse—by your active-duty service? Find out if you can get disability compensation (monthly payments) from VA.