For those who served in the military, transitioning to senior living comes with unique financial and healthcare challenges. That’s why understanding Veterans’ Benefits can be an essential aid in covering the costs of assisted living or long-term care, helping veterans be able to enjoy the quality of life and care they deserve. Some of the benefits provided by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) may be commonly understood, but others seem to be less known. At Someren Glen, we are committed to supporting veterans and their families by helping them access the full range of benefits available.
Key Veterans Benefits for Assisted Living and Long-Term Care
VA Aid and Attendance Benefit
One of the most well-known benefits, the VA Aid and Attendance benefit, provides supplemental income to help veterans cover the costs of assisted living or skilled nursing care. Veterans who require assistance with daily activities—such as bathing, dressing, or medication management—may be eligible for this benefit. Surviving spouses of veterans may also qualify. The Aid and Attendance benefit can significantly offset monthly living costs, helping veterans access the right level of support for their needs.
Basic Pension Benefit
VA basic pensions are designed for veterans over the age of 65. Since the VA classifies any veteran of this age as “disabled,” no physician statement is needed to file. Veterans with limited income may qualify for this program, which provides monthly payments to help with living expenses, including care in an assisted living community. Surviving spouses of veterans may also qualify for the Survivor’s Pension, offering similar financial support.
Veterans Directed Care Program (VD-HCBS)
The Veterans Directed Care program, or VD-HCBS, is designed for veterans who wish to have more control over their care options. With this program, veterans receive a flexible budget to allocate toward care services as they see fit. This may include payments for assisted living, skilled nursing, community services, or in-home support. By offering veterans the flexibility to choose services and caregivers, VD-HCBS allows them to design a care plan that reflects their personal preferences and needs, creating a more comfortable and individualized experience.
Comprehensive Assistance for Skilled Nursing Care
For veterans who need the more extensive medical care provided in skilled nursing settings, the Department of Veterans Affairs offers additional benefits to cover long-term care costs. Veterans may qualify for full or partial financial support for skilled nursing care, depending on their service history, income, and health needs. These benefits can be invaluable in managing the expenses of around-the-clock medical care, rehabilitation services, and specialized programs for complex health conditions. By helping to reduce the cost burden, these benefits ensure that veterans can receive high-quality, continuous care.
Veteran Service Organizations
Veterans’ Benefits for assisted living and long-term care are varied and depend on individual specific circumstances. Working with a VA benefits advisor and/or financial advisor/attorney can be an important part of the process. Veterans Service Organizations (VSOs), such as the American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), and Disabled American Veterans (DAV), can assist veterans in navigating benefit programs and understanding eligibility. These organizations often provide free services to help with applications for Aid and Attendance, pensions, and other VA benefits. Ask for a Benefits Advisor available through the VA to help with finding and securing the right benefits for your specific situation.
Additional VA Benefits for Service-Connected Disabilities
Veterans with service-connected disabilities may be eligible for additional assistance that extends beyond general benefits. These benefits may include higher levels of compensation for those who require assistance with daily living activities or specialized care due to conditions directly related to their military service. This is especially valuable for veterans with unique healthcare needs who require extra support or specialized therapies.
Why It’s Essential to Know All Available Veterans’ Benefits
Navigating the world of senior care and understanding the financial aspects can be overwhelming. Many veterans and their families are unaware of the full range of benefits available to them, leaving valuable resources untapped. Accessing these benefits can make a significant difference, not only in affording the right level of care but also in maintaining a higher quality of life. It’s important to maximize the benefits that are right for your specific situation.
At Someren Glen, we believe that every veteran deserves a dignified and fulfilling experience in their later years, and knowing about these benefits can relieve financial stress, allowing veterans to focus on what matters most—health, comfort, and community. Our team is here to support veterans and their families every step of the way, from providing information on eligibility to assisting with applications and connecting them with trusted resources for additional guidance. In partnership with VA-accredited claims agents and elder law professionals, we make sure veterans and their families have the tools and knowledge to make informed decisions about their care options.
Whether you’re exploring assisted living for a spouse or seeking long-term care, Someren Glen is here to provide the information, support, and compassionate care veterans deserve. Let us help you unlock these benefits and find the best path forward for a fulfilling, comfortable lifestyle.
For more information or assistance with veterans’ benefits, feel free to reach out to our team at Someren Glen. We’re here to help veterans and their families discover the resources available to them and navigate this important transition with confidence and care.
