The Dole Act

In a move that marks a significant step forward for veterans and their families, President Biden has signed the Dole Act into law. Named in honor of Senator Bob Dole, a longtime advocate for veterans, this legislation expands funding and access to at-home care services for veterans. Here’s what you need to know about how this act impacts both care seekers and senior living and care providers.

For veterans and their families, navigating the complexities of finding senior care can feel overwhelming, but the Dole Act is a game changer. This legislation ensures that more veterans can access at-home care services through increased funding and program expansions. With more financial resources available, many families who previously struggled to afford care now have new options to consider.

Here are some of the key benefits for veterans and their families:

• Expanded Eligibility: The Dole Act broadens the criteria for veterans to qualify for at-home care services, ensuring that more individuals get the support they need.

• Financial Assistance: Increased funding means families can explore options like home health aides, respite care, and other essential services without the heavy financial burden. Previously, veterans that were receiving HCBS could only allocate 65% of the cost of nursing home care - this new act increases that funding to be a 100% match! 

• Flexibility in Care: The act emphasizes care in the home setting, allowing veterans to receive personalized care in an environment they are comfortable with—without necessarily needing to transition to a long-term care facility.

At Senior Care Finder, we understand how important it is for families to feel confident in their care decisions. This legislation means veterans have more choices, and our platform is here to help them explore those options with transparency and ease. Veterans can use Senior Care Finder to search for home care providers, compare services, and directly connect with those who fit their needs.

For senior living and care providers, the Dole Act creates an opportunity to reach a wider audience of veterans who are now eligible for expanded care. This legislation highlights the growing emphasis on in-home care, signaling a shift in the senior care landscape that providers should be prepared to adapt to.

Here are a few ways the Dole Act will impact providers:

• Increased Demand for Home Care Services: Providers offering in-home care are likely to see a rise in inquiries from veterans and their families. Ensuring your services are clearly listed and accessible on platforms like Senior Care Finder can help you capture this new demand.

• Funding Opportunities: With more government funding directed toward at-home care, providers can potentially expand their services, hire more staff, or enhance training programs to better meet veterans’ needs.

• Focus on Quality and Personalization: As veterans and their families navigate these new options, they will look for providers with excellent reviews, transparent pricing, and clear service offerings. Providers who prioritize their online presence and maintain detailed, engaging profiles on platforms like Senior Care Finder will stand out.

It’s also important to recognize that while the focus is on at-home care, many veterans will still require transitions to assisted living or memory care as their needs evolve. Providers who offer seamless transitions between care types—or partner with others who do—will position themselves as trusted resources in this changing landscape.

At Senior Care Finder, we believe that finding the right senior living or care option should be simple and stress-free, whether you’re a family member searching for a loved one or a provider striving to connect with families. The Dole Act reinforces the importance of access and transparency, values we hold at the core of our platform.

For families of veterans, this legislation brings hope and new opportunities to secure the care they deserve. For providers, it highlights the importance of staying ahead in a rapidly changing industry. We’re here to help bridge the gap, providing consumers with a comprehensive directory of providers and empowering providers with the tools to reach their audience effectively.

Whether you’re searching for care or looking to connect with families, Senior Care Finder is your trusted partner in navigating the complexities of senior care. Together, we can make a difference for veterans and their families—because everyone deserves peace of mind in their care journey.