Denver, Colorado – As the cost of living continues to rise, it is crucial for marginalized and at-risk communities to be aware of the benefits available to them. One group that can greatly benefit from existing programs is veterans and their families.
For those who have served in the United States Armed Services, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs offers funding for various programs aimed at improving the quality of life and care for aging veterans. These benefits are separate and additional to those provided by Medicare or Medicaid, allowing veterans and their spouses to cover costs associated with aging, including assisted living.
Dana Taylor, a social worker and senior regional manager for a St. Louis Veterans Home Care, explains that one significant difference between VA benefits and Medicare or Medicaid is the repayment structure. When a veteran utilizes VA-provided care, neither the veteran nor their family is financially responsible upon the veteran’s passing. In contrast, Medicaid may require repayment. Additionally, VA benefits do not have a set duration and can be utilized as needed, while Medicare payments for long-term care vary based on the length of stay.
Although the VA covers services like in-home care with a nurse, assistance with daily activities, and meals, it does not extend to rent in assisted living communities. Some of the most common benefits offered by the VA include the Aid & Attendance Pension and the Survivor’s Pension, which are paid in addition to monthly pension and require eligibility to the pension.
To qualify for these programs, individuals must be veterans of a war-era or their surviving spouses with honorable discharges, in need of medical and financial assistance, require aid for daily living activities, be disabled to the point of being bedridden without the possibility of recovery, be in a nursing home due to incapacity, or be permanently visually impaired. Some may also qualify for Housebound benefits if substantially confined due to permanent disability, but eligibility is determined on a case-by-case basis by the VA.
Social worker Dana Taylor emphasizes the importance of being proactive in accessing VA benefits, as these programs can significantly improve the quality of life for veterans. By enrolling in the VA healthcare system, veterans can unlock a myriad of benefits that may otherwise go unnoticed.
Aging life care specialist Roxanne Sorensen echoes the sentiment, highlighting the need for more research to help veterans maximize their investments and savings. By leveraging VA benefits, veterans can alleviate financial burdens and improve their overall quality of life. It is essential for veterans to ask about available benefits, as these services are not always offered outright.
In conclusion, educating oneself about VA benefits is vital for veterans and their families to receive the support they deserve. By seeking out resources within the VA healthcare system and consulting with professionals, veterans can access the assistance they need to maintain their well-being and comfort in the long term.