Veteran Memorial Homes in the United States

The idea of a veterans home in the United States originated in the philanthropic mind of New Jersey Governor Marcus L. Ward, who had great concern for the sick and wounded soldiers of the Civil War. He believed that the commitment and obligation of the state and its citizens to those veterans did not end just because the war was over. The Civil War was devasting to the United States with over 500,000 Americans dying and many more wounded sustaining mental and physical injuries. The need for a home to take care of these veterans was definitely required.

With the dedication of the New Jersey Soldiers' Home in Newark in 1866, a proud tradition began-a tradition of concern and commitment to the veterans of New Jersey. Since that time, New Jersey has remained in the forefront in providing the finest in residential and skilled nursing care for our veterans and in responding and adapting to their changing health care needs.

There are Veteran homes located throughout the United States but we will focus on the three located in New Jersey. My own parents were residents at the Paramus Memorial Home until they passed so I have personal experience on this topic. The Division of Veterans Healthcare Services operates three modern long-term care nursing homes located in Paramus, Menlo Park and Vineland. These homes are inspected and licensed annually by the New Jersey Department of Health and the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs. I must tell you that the guidelines are very strict and must be followed without exception.

Comprehensive services and a deep concern for the residents go hand-in-hand at the New Jersey veterans nursing homes. There is around-the-clock medical and nursing care provided by a full-time staff of physicans, nurse practitioners, registered nurses, licensed practical nurses and certified nursing assistants. One can be assured that the best possible care will be given to each and every veteran and all fiacilities have nearby access to hospitals and urgent care.

Rehabilitative services, such as occupational and physical therapies, speech therapy and recreational activities are provided under the supervision of contracted licensed therapists. Both my parents would go on weekly trips if scheduled to other veteran locations, religious places of worship, American Legion and other suitable places. The residents would look forward to these trips and were very stimulating and rewarding for the residents.

Resident accomodations are assigned based on level of care required and availability. In spacious dining rooms, residents are provided with wholesome meals prepared under the supervision of licensed dietitians. Tray service is available when necessary and special care is given to individually prescribed diets. I must say that the quality and quantity of food is amazing and if you are not happy with the menu , then the staff will bring you whatever you would like. There is a daily menu that youwould be able to make a selection. Snacks are also distributed in the evening if you wish and available at any time throughout the day.

Also, for the convenience of the residents, the homes feature fully equipped beauty and barber shops, lounges for socializing and watching television, outdoor patios and recreation areas, picnic grounds and chapels for religious services for all faiths.

Recreational activities available include gardening, ceramics and other arts and crafts, cooking, bingo, shopping trips, music, art and pet therapy, movies, dinner trips, fishing trips, billiards, and trips to sporting events. There are also almost weekly performers coming to the veteran homes-singers, comedians and dancing.

To apply for admission you must download the application, complete and submit all required forms to the veteran home of your choice. This process is a bit involved--you will have to gather a lot of information plus have a medical doctor complete a section of the application. There could be a waiting list up to six months--it changes all the time. My parents only had to wait about a month or so. Someone will explain the cost structure but it is very reasobanle compared to many senior housing facilities.

The homes are also visited regularly by various veterans and civic organizations and individual volunteers who provide theresidents with companionship, gifts, parties, bus trips, entertainment, games and other activities. 

Locations: You can also visit the websites of each location.

Vineland Memorial Home      856-405-4200

Menlo Park Memorial            732-452-4100

Paramus Memorial Home      201-634-8200

If you are considering a senior housing residence or home for a loved one then I would definitely consider one of the Veteran Memorial Homes.