Biden Signs Law Expanding At-Home Care Options for Eligible Veterans

Veterans will soon have greater access to at-home care under a new law signed by President Joe Biden on Jan. 2, 2025.

The National PACE Association (NPA) praised Biden's approval of the Senator Elizabeth Dole 21st Century Veterans Healthcare and Benefits Improvement Act, which expands access to the Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) nationwide.

NPA President and CEO Shawn Bloom said in a statement that the bill will dramatically expand the options available to veterans wishing to age in place.

Moving forward, there are additional actions Congress can take to further implement PACE for hundreds of thousands of seniors and their families who could benefit from the program.

Expanded access to PACE is just one part of the new law. It also allows the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to increase funding for home- and community-based services (HCBS). Previously, the VA could allocate only 65% of the cost of nursing home care to veterans receiving at-home care.

"This landmark legislation increases VA funding for in-home care to match 100% of the cost of nursing home care," the Home Care Association of America (HCAOA) said in a statement posted on LinkedIn.

This is a crucial victory for veterans and their caregivers.

The adjustment ensures veterans can receive comprehensive home-based care at a cost equivalent to institutional care, HCAOA said. It also allows the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to approve spending above 100% for veterans with severe conditions, such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) or spinal cord injuries.

Eligibility Limited

VA coverage for long-term care includes a range of services designed to help veterans live as independently as possible. Options include nursing home care, assisted living, adult day care, and home-based primary care programs. Eligibility depends on factors such as service-connected disability ratings, income levels, and medical necessity.

In addition to medical care, VA programs often provide support services like help with daily activities, physical therapy, and caregiver respite. These services attempt to ease the burden on families while ensuring veterans receive quality, personalized care in the setting that best suits their needs.

HCAOA, LeadingAge, and several other advocacy organizations commended lawmakers after the U.S. Senate passed the Dole Act on Dec. 13.

Supporters emphasized that providing care at home and in communities improves veterans' quality of life while reducing health care costs for the VA. Home- and community-based services are generally less expensive than institutional care.

An LTC News survey of long-term care costs nationwide shows that in-home care is less expensive in most situations.

Research from the VA has shown that HCBS can delay or even prevent the need for nursing home admissions. These services also help reduce avoidable hospitalizations, further supporting veterans' independence and well-being.