New VA program offers ‘foster health care’

Participants open their homes to vets to who need an alternative to institutional care

The Veterans Affairs Administration is offering a Medical Foster Home Program to veterans in the Sterling, Fort Collins/loveland and Cheyenne, Wyo., areas.

In the program, community members open their home to care for Veterans as an alternative to institutional long-term care. The program is new to the area, the VA is looking for caregivers that may be a good fit for the program and are interested in giving back to veterans.

Amy Windschitl, the program’s coordinator, brings a wealth of professional experience and personal understanding to her role. Her journey at VA began in Central Iowa’s Caregiver Support Program, where she developed a deep understanding and appreciation for Veterans’ intricate needs.

“I’ve seen the challenges our older Veterans face,” Windschitl said. “They’ve sacrificed so much. It’s our turn to enhance their quality of life.”

Her commitment is deeply personal, influenced by the experiences of a veteran close to her heart. Her vision is to foster a supportive and nurturing environment for every vet.

“As you age, VA Cheyenne will be there every step of the way,” Windschitl said.

Studies on VA medical foster homes show that the homes are an effective alternative for longterm care. These studies also highlight meaningful improvements in veterans’ quality of life and well-being in a family-centric setting.

“These homes offer inclusive care, integrating veterans into the daily rhythm of family life,” Windschitl said.

The research also finds these homes to be more cost-effective than traditional nursing homes, with better health outcomes for veterans. Veterans who require nursing home-level care but prefer a non-institutional setting benefit from the personalized help in the program. VA thoroughly vets and trains caregivers.

Home-based Primary Care is also vital benefit of the program. Veterans in the MFH program re

ceive comprehensive care from a multidisciplinary team, including medical providers, nurses, psychologists, dietitians, pharmacists, therapists, social workers and chaplains.

This team offers health care and help directly in the comfort of each veteran’s home, ensuring a holistic approach to meet their individual needs.

With nearly 800 enrolled veterans and over 500 caregivers across 43 states, the program emphasizes a long-term commitment, matching veterans with homes that cater to their physical, social and emotional needs.

Anyone interested in participating in the program can contact Windschitl at 970-361-5126 or learn more about the MFH program.

“Your involvement can profoundly affect our Veterans’ lives, offering them the respect and quality of life they deserve,” Windschitl said.

Find more information on the program at https://www.va.gov/cheyennehealth-care/programs/ medical-foster-home/.