How to Pay for Senior Care with Veterans Benefits

Dec 13, Alissa Sauer

According to the 2021 American Community Survey (ACS), there are approximately 8.1 million veterans over 65, nearly half of all veterans. Many of these veterans are entitled to specific benefits only for veterans of the United States Armed Forces which can be used for paying for senior care services. The benefits apply to veterans who served during a specific time and cover a specific set of services.

Learn more about claiming Veteran’s benefits and using them to pay for senior care.

Aid & Attendance (A&A) Pension

This benefit provides financial assistance to help offset the costs associated with senior care, including assisted living, nursing home care, and in-home assistance.

Aid & Attendance Eligibility

To qualify for Aid and Attendance benefits, veterans must meet certain eligibility criteria set by the VA, including:

• Service Requirements: Veterans must have served on active duty for at least 90 consecutive days, with at least one day during a wartime period. The specific wartime periods designated by the VA may vary.
• Medical Eligibility: Veterans must meet specific medical criteria, such as requiring assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs) such as bathing, dressing, eating, and toileting, or being bedridden due to a chronic illness or disability.
• Financial Eligibility: Financial eligibility requirements are based on income and assets, although these criteria are more lenient than those for other VA pension programs. Veterans may still qualify for Aid and Attendance benefits even if they have significant assets or income.

Benefits of Aid and Attendance

The Aid and Attendance benefit provides additional financial assistance to eligible veterans and their spouses, offering support to help cover the costs of long-term care services. Some key benefits of the A&A Pension include:

• Financial Assistance: Veterans and their spouses who qualify for Aid and Attendance benefits receive a monthly payment from the VA to help offset the costs of senior care services, including assisted living, nursing home care, and in-home assistance.
• Flexibility: Unlike other VA pension programs, the Aid and Attendance benefit can be used to pay for a wide range of senior care services, providing veterans with greater flexibility in choosing the type of care that best meets their needs.
• Supplemental Services: In addition to the monthly payment, veterans who qualify for Aid and Attendance benefits may also be eligible for additional VA services, such as home health care, homemaker services, and respite care for caregivers.
• Surviving Spouses: Surviving spouses of deceased veterans may also be eligible for Aid and Attendance benefits if they meet the VA’s eligibility criteria, providing valuable financial assistance during their golden years.

Other Veteran Benefits for Senior Care

State Veterans Homes

State Veterans Homes, operated by individual states with support from the VA, offer long-term care services to eligible veterans. These facilities provide skilled nursing care, rehabilitation services, and assistance with activities of daily living at reduced costs for veterans.

Home-Based Care Services

The VA offers home-based care programs, such as Homemaker and Home Health Aide Care, Skilled Home Health Care, and Veteran-Directed Care. These programs provide veterans with assistance with daily activities, medical care, and support services in their own homes.

Community Care

Through the VA’s Community Care program, eligible veterans may receive care from non-VA providers, including assisted living facilities and nursing homes, if VA services are not readily available or accessible.

Navigating the Application Process

Applying for Aid and Attendance benefits involves submitting an application to the VA, along with supporting documentation to verify eligibility. The application process can be complex, but veterans and their families can seek assistance from Veterans Service Officers (VSOs) or accredited agents to navigate the process and ensure all requirements are met. Here are some steps to consider:

1. Gather Documentation: Compile necessary documents, such as military service records, medical records, financial information, and proof of eligibility.
2. Contact the VA: Reach out to your local VA office or call the VA’s toll-free number to inquire about available benefits and eligibility criteria.Seek Assistance: Consider seeking assistance from a Veterans Service Officer (VSO) or accredited agent who can provide guidance and support with the application process.
3. Submit Application: Complete and submit the appropriate application forms, ensuring all required information and documentation are included.
4. Follow Up: Stay informed about the status of your application and follow up with the VA as needed to address any questions or concerns.

Using VA Benefits to Pay for Leisure Care Senior Living

Navigating the costs of senior care can be challenging, but veterans benefits offer valuable support for eligible individuals and their families. By understanding available programs and resources and navigating the application process effectively, veterans can access the care they need with greater ease and financial assistance. If you or a loved one is a veteran in need of senior care, don’t hesitate to explore the benefits and services available through the VA. Your service to our country deserves to be honored with the care and support you deserve.

Our communities are skilled in working with veterans benefits to pay for care services and work closely with veterans to get each one their earned benefits. Contact one of our communities today to get started on the process. We are here to help!