Homes-FAQ

The Illinois Department of Veterans Affairs (IDVA) operates five residential veterans homes across the state including Anna, Chicago, LaSalle, Manteno, and Quincy welcoming veterans, and sometimes their spouses. Care includes primarily skilled nursing and memory care. The Veteran’s Homes in Anna and Quincy also offer limited domiciliary accommodations. The homes range in size and location including rural and urban:
 

• Anna: 50 skilled nursing beds and six independent living apartments
• Chicago: 200 skilled nursing beds
  
• LaSalle: 190 skilled nursing beds
  
• Manteno: 304 skilled nursing beds
  
• Quincy: 366 skilled nursing beds and 88 independent living apartments.
  

IDVA will work closely with the veteran and their family to determine eligibility based on clinical needs. The homes are not equipped to care for veterans requiring psychiatric or substance abuse care, or ventilation. 

Eligibility is outlined in State statute, specifically 20 ILCS 2805/2.01.

Honorably Discharged veterans requiring skilled nursing care and who served in the U.S. Armed Forces at least one (1) day of active duty (active duty for training purposes does not qualify) and who have service credited to Illinois or who have resided in Illinois for at least (1) year before application. Priority for admission is given to those Veterans who served during a time of conflict. (WWII, Korea, Vietnam, Persian Gulf War.

A widow, widower, or spouse of an honorably discharged veteran who was a resident of the State of Illinois for a continuous period of one (1) year immediately before applying who has no adequate means of support and unable to earn a living is entitled to admission to the Illinois Veterans’ Homes at Anna and Quincy, based on availability. Additionally, a Gold Star family member deemed eligible by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs, who was a resident of the State of Illinois for a continuous period of one (1) year immediately before applying is entitled to admission to any of the Homes.

In the case of a wait list, preference is offered to eligible veterans.

While admission to a veterans home is not based on ability to pay, the maximum monthly contribution is $1,659, which is calculated by the veteran’s and spouse's monthly income, exclusive of additional assets. Each person’s circumstance is unique, and the homes will assess all factors of the resident's income and additional benefits to evaluate the total cost of care.

       Veterans who have received a 70%-100% service-connected disability rating from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs do not pay a monthly maintenance charge.

         Members whose income and assets are within guidelines specified by the US Department of Veterans Affairs (USDVA) may qualify for a non-service connected pension from the USDVA.

         Those who qualify for the Aid & Attendance allowance from the USDVA will pay an additional, separate Aid & Attendance charge, in addition to the monthly maintenance charge. The Aid & Attendance charge is equal to the amount of the allowance provided by the USDVA. 

Each home is unique based on its size and its amenities, but the same quality care is provided in each home. The monthly maintenance fee includes a fully furnished either private or semi-private room and bathroom depending upon the Home. All medical needs are met through nursing and doctor care, medical treatments and medications, and transport to and from authorized medical appointments. Physical, occupational, and other therapies are also available on-site.

Meal service is provided including three meals a day and snacks. Laundry service includes personal and linens.

Other amenities include depending on the home, a barber/beautician, a library, banks, and a post office.

Social workers provide robust activities and outings to create a community for the residents.

Each home provides outdoor settings for the residents to enjoy. 

The maintenance fee does not include:

·        clothing

·        toiletries

·        eyeglasses

·        hearing aids

·        dentures

·        wheelchairs, Geri-chairs, walkers

·        Prostheses and braces

·        Landline phone service: Discuss availability at each Home

·        Cell Phone service

·        Dental care

Residents are required to carry Medicare Insurance if they are eligible. The Home will work with the resident to determine other state and federal benefits that may factor into their monthly income consideration. 

Each Home offers on-site  physical, speech, and occupational therapies. A restorative nursing program is also available. 

Physicians are available at each Home. 

Depending upon the treatment required, a specialist may be called into the Home, or the resident may be transported to the VA Medical Center assigned to the Home. In an emergency, the resident may be cared for at the local hospital.

What activities are offered to the veterans?

On-site activities staff plan a wide variety of events, trips, parties, entertainment, hobbies, and programs to create enjoyment for residents and a sense of community. Volunteers are also active in the Homes and provide companionship and support to the veterans. 

IDVA has ensured the safety of its residents and staff by providing the highest- level of precautions.

10-day supply of medications for the clinical staff’s review

·        Medical equipment including wheelchair, cane, walker, prosthesis

·        Clothing (10-day supply) – due to limited storage space, seasonal clothing should be rotated

·        Toiletries

·        Personal effects: photographs, artwork, additional blankets, television (confer with each Home on sizing specifications)

·        Phone or cell-phone

Skilled care residents may request a daily or an overnight leave pass with a physician’s order. Leaves are limited to 30 consecutive days and up to 60 days per year. Monthly fees will apply regardless of length of absence.

Domiciliary residents are required to sign in and out of the Home, but do not require a physician’s order. 

Smoking is limited to designated smoking areas.