Introduction

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.

With the dedication of the New Jersey Soldiers' Home in Newark in 1866, a proud tradition began - a tradition of concern for 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.

Facilities & Services

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 Health and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.

Comprehensive services and a deep concern for the residents go hand-in-hand at New Jersey's three state-operated veterans nursing homes. Around-the-clock medical and nursing care is provided by a full-time staff of physicians, nurse practitioners, registered nurses, licensed practical nurses and certified nursing assistants.

Rehabilitative services, such as occupational and physical therapies, speech therapy, and recreational activities are provided under the supervision of contracted licensed therapists.

Resident accommodations 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.

For the convenience and comfort 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 programs, movies, dinner trips, fishing excursions, billiards, and trips to sporting events.

Eligibility

The facilities are open to veterans who were honorably discharged from U.S. war or peacetime services, the veteran's spouse, and to spouses and parents of members of the military who were killed in action during a period of war (Gold Star Parent).

Preference is given to applicants who were state residents for at least two years immediately prior to application for admission. Residents pay according to ability based on income.

To Apply for Admission

Refer to the Admissions information for the home of your choice.

Volunteer Program

The homes are visited regularly by various veterans and civic organizations and individual volunteers who provide the residents with companionship, gifts, parties, bus trips, entertainment, games and other recreational activities. To volunteer at any of the homes, contact the volunteer coordinator at the facility.

Policies

• Admission Eligibility
• Infectious Disease Outbreak Response Plan