93-year-old mother has advanced dementia and requires 24/7 care. She is bedridden. My wife currently cares for her in our home, and Hospice aide comes for 45 - 60 mins M-F.
Mother currently receives a VA/DOD pension and Social Security income.
From my understanding the VA facilities are just for the Veterans themselves. (although some have moved in with the spouse) I would contact the VA and see what is available. HOWEVER a faster answer might come from Hospice. The Hospice I used for my Husband and the one I currently Volunteer with has staff that works closely with the VA and they may be able to get answers faster than going through the VA. If you and your wife need a break ask the Hospice Nurse about Respite stay. They will either place mom in the Hospice In Patient Unit or they will find a facility near by that they work with. They will arrange transport to and from. The Respite is covered by Medicare, Medicaid and most all other insurance. It will cover almost a week of Respite each year.
She's eligible for the Aid & Attendance program at the least. It should cover most of the cost of a facility. Call Social Work at the VA facility nearest to you or go to www.va.gov/pension/aid-attendance-pension.
Getting A&A can take a long time so when you talk to SW, also ask about the other care programs listed on the Geriatric and Extended Care (www.va.gov/GERIATRICS) page.
You will need to call your Local VA office. Have your FILs discharge papers handy. There are VA facilities but not easy to get into. They take the people who have served, especially those with service related disabilities, before spouses.
If your Mom is on Hospice why are you seeking a facility? Medicare will not pay for the facility so it will be private pay. It takes up to 3 months to get Medicaid. If Mom has any money, maybe hiring an aide would give wife a break. Medicaid maybe able to help there with in home help?
I would contact the VA and see what is available.
HOWEVER a faster answer might come from Hospice. The Hospice I used for my Husband and the one I currently Volunteer with has staff that works closely with the VA and they may be able to get answers faster than going through the VA.
If you and your wife need a break ask the Hospice Nurse about Respite stay. They will either place mom in the Hospice In Patient Unit or they will find a facility near by that they work with. They will arrange transport to and from.
The Respite is covered by Medicare, Medicaid and most all other insurance. It will cover almost a week of Respite each year.
Getting A&A can take a long time so when you talk to SW, also ask about the other care programs listed on the Geriatric and Extended Care (www.va.gov/GERIATRICS) page.
If your Mom is on Hospice why are you seeking a facility? Medicare will not pay for the facility so it will be private pay. It takes up to 3 months to get Medicaid. If Mom has any money, maybe hiring an aide would give wife a break. Medicaid maybe able to help there with in home help?
Ask about Aid and Attendance.