What is the New Hampshire Veterans Home? What is your Mission?
Where are you located? Are there other Veterans' Homes in New Hampshire?
What services are provided at the Home?
Do you have a secure psychiatric unit?
What kinds of activities do you offer?
Do you offer Palliative and Hospice Care?
Who can make a referral to the New Hampshire Veterans Home?
Are you a Medicare "Skilled Nursing Facility?"
Who is eligible for admission to the Veterans Home?
How many residents do you have? How many men, women, and how many staff? How old are the residents?
When is the Admissions Office open?
Do I have to be at least 62 years old to apply for admission?
Do I have to be a New Hampshire resident to be eligible for admission to the Veterans Home?
Do I have to have served during a time of war to be eligible for admission to the Veterans Home?
What kinds of documents do I need to provide in order to apply?
Who makes the final decision for admission?
If I am denied admission to NHVH, what are my rights?
May I be admitted if I have medical problems that require special care?
Is there a waiting list and if so, how long is the wait?
Does the Home provide transportation to applicants reporting to the Home?
Do you assist with planning ahead and other resource options?
Do residents share a bathroom?
How many personal belongings may I bring with me?
I have a pet dog and a cat. May I bring them with me?
Do you provide laundry services?
Are alcoholic beverages allowed?
Am I allowed to leave the Home for the day or overnight?
Is the cost of care free because I am a veteran?
How often will I receive a bill?
What forms of payment do you accept?
Does a resident need a small amount of spending money each month? How much?
What is the New Hampshire Veterans Home? What is your Mission?
The New Hampshire Veterans Home is a long-term (custodial) care facility providing a range of nursing services from care for those who need minimal assistance to those who need total and end-of-life care. The mission of the New Hampshire Veterans Home is to provide the best quality of life for NH Veterans with dignity, honor and respect..
Where are you located? Are there other Veterans' Homes in New Hampshire?
We are the only Veterans' Home in New Hampshire and we are located at 139 Winter Street in Tilton, New Hampshire. Driving directions are as follows:
From the South:
Take 93 North to Exit 19 and turn left at the end of the off ramp. Continue for approximately one mile until you reach a traffic light and turn left onto Route 3 South.
Take the second right onto Winter Street (at the Soldier's Monument) and continue on Winter Street to the top of the hill. New Hampshire Veterans Home is on the right.
From the North:
Take 93 South to Exit 20 and turn right at the end of the off ramp onto Route 3 South.
Go straight through 2 sets of railroad tracks and take the second right after the second railroad track onto Winter Street (at the Soldier's Monument). Continue on Winter Street to the top of the hill and New Hampshire Veterans Home is on the right.
What services are provided at the Home?
The disciplines of nursing, physical therapy, dietary, social work, therapeutic recreation, and spiritual care are integrated into what we call thee "I" Care Team. The "I" Care Team focuses on the whole person, not just a person's disease or disability. We are committed to person-centered care.
We assess all incoming residents to ensure placement in the Home that will offer them the best Quality of Care and Quality of Life within a beautiful and safe environment. This includes state-of-the-art neighborhoods designed to meet the unique needs of those with dementia (such as Alzheimer's disease and other forms of cognitive loss or memory impairment).
We have our own Medical Director, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Registered Nurses, LPNs, LMNAs, LNAs, pharmacists, dietitians, therapeutic recreation, and social work staff. A dentist makes scheduled visits to the Home, and services for mental health, as well as occupational and speech therapy, are contracted out.
We have our own bank, store, library, chapel, and recreation areas for residents, as well as the following departments: Resident Care Services, Admissions, Staff Development, Rehabilitation, Human Resources, Building & Grounds, Housekeeping, Laundry, Food Service, Medical Services & Supplies, Information Technology, Payroll, Spiritual Care, Public Affairs, Volunteers, Scheduling, Safety & Security, and Business. Our many volunteers contribute enormously to enhancing the quality of life of our residents.
Do you have a secure psychiatric unit?
No. Unfortunately we do not have the resources to support this type of program.
What kinds of activities do you offer?
Our therapeutic recreation program offers activities for residents at all levels of care, seven days a week. These include but are not limited to: shopping trips, art studio, fitness programs ("Move It or Lose It," Frisbee toss, Blongo Ball, table tennis, Tai Chi, bowling, Indoor golf, Wii games, darts, and more), crafts, intergenerational programs, reminisce groups, peaceful moments, "It's Never 2 Late" computer activities, writing group, live musical (and other) entertainment, sports trivia, religious services, choir, trips to veterans' service organizations, baseball games (Fisher Cats, Red Sox), games of chance, holiday celebrations, bingo, lunches at local restaurants, fishing, and much more. The Veterans Home encourages individual creativity and publishes Veterans' Voices, a magazine which celebrates the creative work of residents. We also have an art gallery which features art by residents.
Do you offer Palliative and Hospice Care?
Yes. We believe that death is the final stage of growth, and a palliative approach to care is essential when life can no longer be sustained. Palliative Care provides symptom management with focus on maintaining quality of life, not disease cure.
NHVH Hospice Care provides symptom management for the resident who is in a permanently declining state with significant change in multiple areas of their activities of daily living. In situations where death is expected, residents often want to remain at NHVH rather than be sent to the hospital. Nursing and social service staff are highly skilled and experienced in providing excellent palliative care under supervision of the Medical Staff.
Family members, friends and clergy are free to visit whenever they wish. Palliative Care is provided in the resident's own room. A family room is available for visitors who wish to stay overnight. Visitors can reserve the family room by contacting the unit social worker.
Contracted Hospice Services - The resident may choose to elect the "Hospice Benefit" from a certified Medicare Hospice Agency that is a contracted provider with the New Hampshire Veterans Home. There must be a physician's order that states the resident has six months or less to live.
The Volunteer Vigil was started by the NHVH Palliative Care Committee to train volunteers to sit vigil with actively dying residents. Volunteers are provided special training regarding the needs of our residents at the end of life.
Who can make a referral to the New Hampshire Veterans Home?
Anyone, including the prospective resident, can make a referral.
No. We are a state-owned facility for veterans established in 1890 with administrative rules governed by the State of New Hampshire. We are, however, inspected each year by the VA system. Although we are a New Hampshire state agency and most of our operating expenses are paid for by the State of New Hampshire, we do partner with the US Department of Veterans Affairs in certain areas in order to leverage resources and provide veterans with excellent care.
Are you a Medicare "Skilled Nursing Facility?"
No. We do not have a contract for skilled care (SNF) with the Medicare system. We are strictly a long-term (custodial) care Home that offers 24-hour nursing care. Many of our residents have been transferred to NHVH from a SNF facility when their rehab potential has been determined to be maximized and they remain unable to do their own activities of daily living (ADLs), such as dressing, bathing, or walking.
Who is eligible for admission to the Veterans Home?
The applicant must have been honorably discharged from service in any of the armed forces, reserves or the NH Army/Air National Guard. (The applicant does not have to have served in combat or have a service-connected disability.)
The applicant must have a) been a resident of the State of New Hampshire for at least one (1) year prior to the date of application or b) had New Hampshire listed as their "home of record" on their military discharge papers.
The applicant's condition(s) must be within the Home's resources and ability to treat and the applicant may not present potential harm to self or other residents.
An applicant's assets will determine their financial contribution to room and board. There is a one-year financial look-back period. A house will not be counted as an asset if it remains occupied by a spouse, partner or dependent.
By contacting the Admission Coordinators' office (603) 527-4400. We can mail or fax you the Admissions Application. If you prefer, you may download and print it out from our web site. Our mailing/street address is NH Veterans Home, 139 Winter Street, Tilton, NH 03276.
How many residents do you have? How many men, women, and how many staff? How old are the residents?
Currently our capacity is 250 residents. About 85% of residents are men and 15% are women. Residents range in age between late 50s and 100. We have approximately 400 staff.
If your spouse is a veteran who meets the admission criteria, she or he is eligible for admission. If your spouse is not a veteran, she or he is not eligible.
When is the Admissions Office open?
The Admissions office hours are Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and after hours upon request. Our telephone number is (603) 527-4400. Our fax number is (603) 266-1266. Our e-mail address is: admissions@nhvh.nh.gov
Yes. We encourage tours and you may schedule one through the Admissions Office.
Do I have to be at least 62 years old to apply for admission?
No. There are no minimum age requirements.
Do I have to be a New Hampshire resident to be eligible for admission to the Veterans Home?
The applicant must have a) been a resident of the State of New Hampshire for at least one (1) year prior to the date of application or b) had New Hampshire listed as their "home of record" on their military discharge papers.
Do I have to have served during a time of war to be eligible for admission to the Veterans Home?
No. You must have been honorably discharged from service from the armed forces, reserves or NH Army/Air National Guard. (You do not have to have served in combat or have a service-connected disability.)
What kinds of documents do I need to provide in order to apply?
- Application Form
- Final Requests Form
- Financial Affidavit
- Applicant Agreement Form
- Notice of Privacy Practices (Review and keep)
- Consent for Care & Treatment, Use of Health Care Information and Acknowledgement of Privacy Notice Form
- Three (3) Medical Release Forms
- Security Form
- Criminal Record Release Authorization Form (last page) - a signature in both places must be witnessed by a notary. There is no fee.
- Original DD-214 or other military papers showing entry and discharge dates with type of discharge. The original will be returned to you after VA verification.
- Copies of any Health Insurance Cards, including Medicare. (Please copy front and back of the insurance cards.)
- Copies of Advance Directives i.e. Living Will, Power of Attorneys for Healthcare and Finances or Guardianship over the Person and/or Estate.
- Certified Marriage Certificate/Civil Union Contract or Divorce Decree.
- Copy of proof of financial assets i.e. checking and saving statements and monthly income for one full year.
- Copies of Trusts, Long Term Care Insurance Policies and Deeds are required if applicable.
Your physician must complete VA Form 10-10SH and the NH Medical Information Form in its entirety.
Who makes the final decision for admission?
The Admissions Committee considers and reviews all pertinent information for each applicant and then makes a decision for or against admission.
If I am denied admission to NHVH, what are my rights?
You have the right to appeal and may do so by sending a letter to the Admissions Coordinator requesting that your determination of ineligibility for the Veterans Home be reviewed. The letter must be received within 15 days of the receipt of notice of ineligibility.
May I be admitted if I have medical problems that require special care?
Your condition(s) must be within the Home's resources and ability to treat.
Is there a waiting list and if so, how long is the wait?
Once the application is approved, the veteran enters a "candidate pool". When there is an opening on a unit that can meet his or her needs, the veteran can be admitted. Vacancies vary from month to month. The entire admission process on average takes two to four months.
No. Our admissions occur only on Tuesdays, Wednesday and Thursdays.
Does the Home provide transportation to applicants reporting to the Home?
No. An applicant or his/her family or guardian must arrange transportation when reporting to the Home.
Do you assist with planning ahead and other resource options?
Yes. The Admissions office, with a scheduled appointment, can review your medical needs and financial situation to help you learn about a variety of long-term care resources that can meet your needs for continuity of care.
Is it possible, that in certain situations, my spouse's financial situation would be stronger if I didn't come to the Veterans Home? Please explain.
Yes. If a veteran is required to pay 90% of his/her monthly income to the Veterans Home for room and board, and the spouse is dependant on that income, it may be better financially for the spouse if the veteran applies for Medicaid benefits and chooses to live at another long-term care facility. This would preserve more income for the non-veteran spouse who is still living at home. The State of New Hampshire Medicaid program offers a monthly allowance to a spouse if he or she qualifies.
On the Life Enhancement Neighborhoods (for veterans with cognitive loss) all of the rooms are single bed rooms. Throughout the rest of the Home, most of the veterans have a roommate. We have a few private rooms but they are assigned based on clinical needs, not personal preference.
Do residents share a bathroom?
Yes. On the Life Enhancement Neighborhoods we have one toilet for every two residents. Throughout the rest of the Home, four residents share one toilet, and additional facilities are available in the separate tub/shower rooms.
How many personal belongings may I bring with me?
A clothing list is provided to each applicant upon acceptance to the Home. Bear in mind that storage for resident belongings is limited to that available in the resident’s room.
The New Hampshire Veterans Home provides a bed, night stand, chair, drawers, and closet. In some cases, there is room for a recliner or desk, but all furniture requests must be submitted to a social worker for approval through the safety/housekeeping authorization process. We do not allow cloth-covered recliners or chairs.
I have a pet dog and a cat. May I bring them with me?
No. Pet and animal visitation is permitted only under controlled conditions in order to prevent the potential spread of infections/diseases to and from animals and residents. A family member or friend may bring your pet in to visit you as long as the animal is in good health, has current immunizations, and is monitored by their handler at all times for safety of residents and staff while in the facility. The intent of this policy is to strike a reasonable balance between the positive benefits and the risks of having animals in the facility. We also have an animal-assisted therapy program through our Volunteer Services Department and residents may receive regular visits from approved pets and their handlers through that program.
Do you provide laundry services?
Yes. Laundry service is provided on site for general linens (towels, sheets, etc,) and for personal laundry. Specialized services such as dry cleaning, mending, and alterations are available at the resident's expense. A price list and a schedule of weekly pickup and delivery times are available on each unit.
Yes. Visitors are an important part of our residents' lives. We recommend that family and friends plan visits between 9:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. Visitors must use the main entrance (Door #2), sign in, and obtain a visitor's pass at the reception desk. If a resident is very ill, visitors are welcome to spend time with them during the night. If you are planning a visit outside of normal visiting hours, we ask that you call ahead to let the staff know so that we may arrange for you to enter the building. In order to maintain a secure environment, there are different procedures for entering the building during late night and early morning hours.
No. We require that all drivers' licenses be voluntarily suspended.
We have a Physical Therapy room and, with a doctor's order, we can offer residents independent use of the exercise equipment in the Physical Therapy room when the room is not being used for therapy purposes. The Physical Therapy program is under the direction of our Physical Therapist.
Are alcoholic beverages allowed?
With a medical order, a resident may have an occasional alcoholic beverage while under staff supervision. Otherwise, residents may not possess or consume alcohol on the premises.
Is there a probation period or a specific set of rules and procedures I must follow to become and remain a NHVH resident?
There is no probation period, but there are rules and procedures all residents are asked to follow in order to ensure safety and preserve community. This information is contained in the Resident Handbook 
.
Yes. If a resident is to be discharged, the Resident Care Team can assist with discharge planning.
Our Medical Director is the physician on staff. We also have a part-time physician and nurse practitioners who work closely with our Medical Director and our Consulting Psychiatrist. Professional nursing staff care for residents on a 24-hour basis. This includes care provided by Registered Nurses (RNs), Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) or Licensed Nursing Assistants (LNAs) working under the direct supervision of an RN or LPN as well as the administration of medications and assistance with activities of daily living.
Upon admission, the nursing team will participate in developing an individualized care plan for you. If your health status changes, and/or you are transferred to a hospital, your Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care, next of kin and/or Guardian will be notified as soon as possible. Medications are prescribed by a physician and administered by the nursing staff. The Medical Staff reviews your medications at least once per month. Residents and family members are prohibited from purchasing any medications for residents in order to avoid possible side effects with prescription medications.
The Medical Director sees each resident once a month and is on call 24-hours each day. If he deems it appropriate; he can order a specialty MD consultation. We make the appointments within the Medicare network of health care professionals and will provide transportation to and from medical appointments ordered by the NHVH MD.
You have the right to choose your own physician, but if you choose a physician who is out of our network, it will be your responsibility to arrange appointments and transportation.
Am I allowed to leave the Home for the day or overnight?
Yes. You may go out on a day pass as long as you have no medical appointments or unless leaving-even if for a short time-would be considered "against medical advice." VA rules allow a maximum of 96 hours of leave at one time. We require a five-day notice of any overnight absences in order to give us time to prepare the medications you will need while on leave.
Yes. Residents have free access to computers in our library. The Veterans Home also has Skype access for video conferencing in the library. Please keep in mind that not all Residents choose to use computers.
Is the cost of care free because I am a veteran?
If you have a service-connected disability of 70% or more, you may be eligible for care without cost, as long as you meet all other admissions eligibility requirements.
What is covered/not covered in the monthly charges? Are there additional fees for higher levels of care, dementia, activities, medicines?
Room and board charges include 24-hour nursing care, all VA formulary prescription medications, transportation to and from medical appointments ordered by the NHVH medical staff, routine dental care, dietary services (three meals per day and snacks), housekeeping and laundry services, basic cable television, resident account services and coordination of VA/pension benefits, social services and recreational activities.
Expenses Not Covered
Additional services and/or items that are not included in the room and board charges and may not be covered by VA, Medicare or other private health insurance plans include the following:
- 20% Medicare co-pays and deductibles
- Supplemental health care insurance premiums
- Personal clothing
- Personal toiletries
- Barber/Beautician services
- Eyeglass prescriptions
- Dental/partial plates (new or replacements)
- Private travel
- Meals outside of NHVH
- Personal snacks
- Fees for legal services and/or legal documents
- Entertainment equipment such as televisions and radios
- Hearing aids (new or replacements)
- Some durable medical equipment
- Personal computers, cell phones and private internet service
- Non-covered VA formulary brand name prescription medications
How often will I receive a bill?
Upon admission, residents are required to pay the first month's room and board in advance. If for any reason, the resident voluntarily discharges back to the community within the first 30 days after admission, he or she will forfeit the balance of the first month's room and board.
Room and board charges are billed for the previous month. We recommend each resident pay one month in advance to avoid any financial delays in the month of discharge. Upon receiving 30 days written notice, residents may be discharged for non-payment of room and board.
Residents are responsible for their monthly room and board charges until the date that they are discharged from the NHVH. Residents who are on an extended hospital stay or who are receiving rehabilitative services at other facilities are still responsible for the payment of their room and board charges during such absences.
What forms of payment do you accept?
Cash or checks.
Does a resident need a small amount of spending money each month? How much?
Residents may wish to have spending money for trips off campus to stores or restaurants. We encourage residents not to keep cash in their rooms. Each resident is permitted to withdraw a maximum of $25.00 per week at the NHVH bank.
I have medical coverage through a health maintenance organization (HMO). Should I keep this coverage?
No. We work with Medicare Parts A and B.
New Hampshire Veterans Home
139 Winter Street | Tilton, NH 03276-5415 |
(p) 603-527-4400 | (f) 603-286-4242