Author: Andrea Miller
Reviewed By: Gene Altaffer

TRICARE for Life does not cover assisted living facilities. TRICARE defines assisted living as a community where individuals live independently with access to help with daily tasks, social activities, housekeeping, personal care, medication management and meals. If you have TRICARE insurance, it will not pay for these services.

Do other programs help veterans with assisted living?

The Veterans Administration has programs to help veterans with assisted living and other types of long-term care. If you sign up for a VA health plan, it will cover assisted living services such as help with daily activities, medication management and physical therapy. However, it doesn’t cover your rent or other nonmedical assisted living costs. The VA has its own assisted living facilities and approves some outside facilities for plan members.

If you’re a veteran, consider seeking Aid and Attendance benefits. This program provides a monthly stipend for qualified veterans who need assistance with daily activities, which may include services at an assisted living facility. The VA requires you to apply for this program either by mail or in person at your local VA regional office.

Does Medicare pay for assisted living for veterans?

Medicare does not cover assisted living for veterans. Like TRICARE, Medicare pays only for medically necessary care such as doctors’ visits, medical tests and procedures. However, Medicaid waivers pay part of the cost of assisted living in some states.