Credit: WCBC Radio

U.S. Congressman David Trone has reintroduced the Expanding Veterans’ Options for Long Term Care Act, which would help senior veterans live more independently and cut costs for the Department of Veterans Affairs. The legislation creates a three-year pilot program for eligible vets to receive assisted living care paid for by the VA. The number of veterans eligible for nursing home care is expected to rise by approximately 535% over the next 20 years. Many of these veterans do not require nursing homes and would be better served by assisted living, allowing them to live more independently. Currently, the VA is barred from covering room and board at assisted living facilities. VA coverage of assisted living care would also significantly cut costs for the department, as nursing home fees average nearly $121,000 per year, while assisted living facilities cost only a little more than $51,000 per year.