Compassionate Home Care: SAVAHCS Medical Foster Home for Veterans

It's a way of giving back to those who have sacrificed for their country. Driven by compassion and a sense of community, Martha transitioned from volunteering in assisted living to the VA Southern Arizona Health Care System’s Medical Foster Home program.

"My journey began as an assisted living volunteer," Martha recalls. "One day, a woman I assisted called me and introduced me to the VA Medical Foster Home program. With her encouragement and realizing I had a natural gift for caregiving, I decided to apply."

Three months later, Martha became an official VA Medical Foster Home provider. Her home, meticulously prepared to meet the unique needs of each resident, has since provided a nurturing environment for many Veterans.

"I've been doing this since June of 2014, and every day I grow more passionate about it," she shares. "These Veterans become like family; some even call me mom."

The VA Medical Foster Home program is a comprehensive initiative that integrates Home Based Primary Care (HBPC) for Veterans who are unable to live independently. Veterans receive personalized support that includes regular home visits from their HBPC primary care team (doctors, nurses, dieticians, occupational therapists, social workers, pharmacists, and psychologists). In addition, the team provides essential services in the home that can eliminate the need for hospital trips. 

"The support is incredible," Martha emphasizes. "Everything the Veterans need is provided right here in their Medical Foster Home."

Running a VA Medical Foster Home requires a multifaceted approach, from assisting with everyday activities like feeding and toileting to managing medical needs such as feeding tubes and catheters. Martha’s home acts as a sanctuary where Veterans receive three nutritious meals a day, laundry services, and even personalized care for specific dietary requirements. 

"For instance, if a Veteran has diabetes, we prepare special meals for them," she notes.

Martha finds the most rewarding aspect of her work is the transformation that she witnesses in the Veterans that come to her home. 

"They go from being patients to family members," she explains. "One Veteran has been with me for six years; such bonds mean the world to me."

Looking forward, Martha is committed to continuing her work. 

"I want to do this until I can no longer physically manage it," she states. "This program is demanding but immensely rewarding. I hope others step up to provide these vital services to our Veterans."

Martha’s home exudes warmth and care, from meticulously laundered clothes to a well-stocked medicine closet, ensuring a safe, hygienic environment for all. The outdoor space is equally inviting, offering a serene setting for picnics and relaxation.

Running a medical foster home demands a blend of empathy, resilience, and a structured routine, qualities Martha embodies. Her home stands as a testament to the power of the community and compassion in providing dignified care to those who served.

“I hope that one day, if I ever need care, someone will treat me with the same love and respect I give to my Veterans,” Martha says, reflecting on the spirit of her work.

For more information on the SAVAHCS Medical Foster Home program, contact our local VA Medical Foster Home team at (520) 629-1838 or email Andrea.Burkholder@va.gov.