Bedford, MA – The Edith Nourse Rogers Memorial Veterans Hospital in Bedford is pleased to announce it has joined a nationwide initiative to offer our veterans an alternative to institutionalized long term care; Medical Foster Homes (MFH). The Medical Foster Home (MFH) program is a unique partnership of adult foster homes and Home Based Primary Care (HBPC), operating under Community Residential Care (CRC) guidelines, through the Department of Veterans Affairs.
There are many veterans who have lived home alone and independently for years with the help of comprehensive home care services. Sometimes, the veteran’s health declines to the point that it is no longer safe to continue living alone. Traditionally, the only solution was nursing home placement; however, if the veteran is not interested in nursing home care, the lack of additional supports may adversely affect the health and well being of the individual. The Medical Foster Home (MFH) program steps in to offer a safe, favorable, and less costly alternative for the veteran.
Medical Foster Home finds caregivers in the community who are willing to take a veteran into their home and provide 24-hour supervision as well as needed personal assistance. The expectation is that this is a long-term commitment, where the veteran may live for the remainder of his or her life. The caregivers are paid based upon the level of care needed, ranging from someone with dementia with some dependence in activities of daily living, to someone who may be incontinent, bed-bound, and has more intensive care needs. This is a very cost-effective alternative to nursing home placement and allows for a safe home type environment for veterans.
Payment is made by the veteran directly to the caregiver monthly and includes room and board, 24-hour supervision, assistance with medications, and whatever personal care is needed. Medical Foster Home caregivers are appointed and monitored by clinical staff members from the Bedford VA Hospital.
The Bedford VA Hospital is currently searching for individuals who are interested in becoming future Medical Foster Home caregivers. Potential caregivers must be:
* Over the age of 21
* Own or renting a home, and live there with the veteran(s)
* Read, write, and speak English (Bilingual applicants are encouraged to apply)
* First Aid and CPR certified or willing to become certified
* Have formal or informal experience as a caregiver
* Allow an Interdisciplinary Treatment Team (HBPC and MFH) into your home for needed visits or inspections.
* Willing to accept, participate in, and follow the veteran’s treatment plan
The Medical Foster Home program allows community members an opportunity to serve our veterans. If you or some one you know is interested in receiving more information about this exciting program, please contact VA Social Worker Cheryl Coviello, Medical Foster Home Program Coordinator, at (781) 687-2706.
