Veterans, Home Health Care, and Technology: Innovation at the VA
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has become an unexpected leader in providing cost-effective, high-quality in-home health care for veterans. Despite past controversies within the agency, the VA’s home-based health and palliative care programs have become a model for innovation and success.
As Thomas Edes, Director of Comprehensive Geriatrics and Palliative Care for the VA, explains:
“We’re working in an environment of challenging budget constraints, and at the same time, we’re a very mission-driven organization. Put those together and what happens? That really pushes us to innovate.”
The Growth of Home-Based Care for Veterans
Since 2000, home-based primary care for veterans has quadrupled. Every VA medical center across the United States now offers palliative care programs, and the Medical Foster Home Program has expanded from a pilot initiative to a nationwide effort operating in more than 45 states.
These programs are essential as the median age of U.S. veterans reaches 64 and continues to rise faster than the general senior population. The VA’s commitment to supporting this aging demographic has become a cornerstone of its mission.
Meeting the Needs of Aging Veterans
The growing number of older Americans — particularly those age 85 and older, projected to increase by 70% from 2000 to 2020 — has challenged the nation’s health care infrastructure. For veterans, the VA’s home-based programs offer a sustainable, community-centered alternative to institutional care.
By combining in-home services and technology, the VA can deliver cost-effective, personalized care while easing strain on hospitals and long-term care facilities.
Telehealth: Revolutionizing Veteran Care
The Official Blog of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs reports that telehealth technology is transforming how veterans access medical care. Through VA Video Connect, veterans can meet with health care providers from home — a major benefit for the 24% of veterans living in rural or remote areas.
Telehealth is also vital for veterans with disabilities who may find travel to a medical center difficult or impossible. These virtual services ensure that every veteran — regardless of location or mobility — can receive timely, quality care.
Technology and Innovation in Veteran Support
The VA is investing in assistive technologies to enhance independence and improve quality of life. Innovations include:
- Mobility equipment: Advanced wheelchairs, all-terrain vehicles, exoskeletons, and in-home track systems.
- Home modification grants: Funding to adapt homes with ramps, lifts, and other accessibility features.
- Digital assistance devices: Smartphones, GPS systems, reminder watches, and digital voice recorders that help veterans manage medications and daily routines.
- AI-powered companion robots: These devices can recognize facial expressions and alert caregivers when a veteran appears stressed, anxious, or depressed.
- Wearable sensors: Continuous health monitoring that sends real-time data to medical professionals.
For veterans living with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), these tools can provide comfort, consistency, and early intervention when emotional distress arises.
Mobility and Adaptive Vehicle Support
The VA also provides financial assistance for adaptive equipment and transportation. Disabled veterans may receive grants for vehicle modifications that restore mobility and independence — including adaptive controls, lifts, or vision-assisting features.
These benefits extend to sports and recreation equipment, promoting physical activity and improved mental health.
Aging in Place with Dignity
For many veterans, the goal is to age in place safely and independently. However, military service-related injuries — both physical and psychological — can make that goal more complex.
Accessing benefits and programs can be overwhelming without professional guidance. Navigating eligibility requirements and application processes takes time and expertise. Working with an experienced advocate or elder-law professionalcan help veterans and their families avoid delays and receive the support they deserve.
Supporting Maine Veterans and Their Families
At Aging in Maine, we’re committed to helping veterans understand their care options, access available benefits, and plan for a future with security and dignity.
If you have questions or would like to discuss your specific situation, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
📞 Call us at (207) 848-5600 or visit our Contact Page to learn more.
