August 30, 2025
Veteran Affairs
Do veterans get free nursing home care?
“Do veterans get free nursing home care?”
It’s a question that comes up often, especially as veterans or their families begin planning long-term care. The answer isn’t black and white — but it’s certainly not a dead end either.
Let’s break it down and explore what options are available, what’s covered by the Department of Veterans Affairs, and how support services can make this transition smoother.
Is Nursing Home Care Different for Veterans?
Here’s the Honest Answer
Nursing home care involves round-the-clock medical support and assistance with daily living tasks. For veterans, this could mean staying in a VA-operated facility, a state-run veterans’ home, or even a community nursing home.
The goal? To provide compassionate care that respects their service while meeting their health needs.
Can Veterans Really Get Free Nursing Home Care?
Here’s the Truth
Yes — but not always fully, and not for everyone.
Here’s the deal. The Department of Veterans Affairs can cover nursing home care, but it depends on several factors like the veteran’s service history, disability rating, and income level.
Think Nursing Home Care Is Always Expensive?
Not Always for Veterans
Veterans typically qualify for free nursing home care if:
✅ Meet low-income and financial eligibility requirements.
✅ Need nursing care for a service-connected condition.
✅ Have a service-connected disability rating of 70% or higher.
Additionally, veterans who are former prisoners of war (POWs) or were awarded special medals may also qualify for full coverage.
However, even if they don’t meet these exact criteria, they might still be eligible for partial coverage or subsidized care.
Not Sure If You’re Eligible?
The VA looks at a few things when deciding eligibility:
Service-connected disability rating
Income and assets
Medical needs
Availability of VA or community care facilities nearby
Some veterans may also be eligible through programs like Aid & Attendance or Housebound Allowance, which help with personal care needs and supplement income for nursing home costs.
So, it’s not a one-size-fits-all answer — but the support is there.
Types of Nursing Home Facilities Veterans Can Access
Veterans can access care in three main settings:
1. VA Community Living Centers (CLCs)
Run by the VA, these are similar to standard nursing homes but are tailored for veterans. They often offer rehabilitation, skilled nursing, and even palliative care.
2. State Veterans Homes
Funded by both the state and federal government, these homes are a great option. Costs are usually lower, and some veterans may receive free care based on eligibility.
3. Community Nursing Homes
Contracted by the VA, these are private facilities that provide care to veterans — usually closer to their families. The VA may pay for part or all of the care, depending on the veteran’s status.
👉 Tip: If you’re unsure which facility is right for your loved one, reach out to a care coordinator who understands both VA and NDIS pathways.
How the NDIS Can Step In and Support You?
Now here’s where it gets even more helpful. For veterans under 65 (or those who joined NDIS before turning 65), NDIS services can work alongside VA support to provide extra assistance.
This can include:
If you’re navigating both systems, having the right support provider makes a huge difference.
Final Thoughts
To circle back to our starting point — yes, veterans can get free nursing home care, but it depends on their eligibility and circumstances.
The good news? There’s a lot of support out there. And no veteran has to navigate it alone.
Whether it’s understanding VA entitlements, coordinating with state-run homes, or maximising NDIS plans, having the right guidance makes all the difference.
If you’re sitting on unspent funds, it’s the perfect time to ask:
What support would make life easier for me right now?
Let’s talk about that.
Reach out to Abled Care and Nursing Services, and let’s explore how you can put your funding to good use, before it goes unused.
