Currently, there are two main types of veterans benefits that are available: The VA Aid and Attendance benefit, and The Housebound benefit. These are paid over and above a VA Pension or a Survivor's Pension, but your loved one has to qualify. Both can be used to cover the costs of long-term senior care, but you can't receive both simultaneously.
The VA Aid & Attendance Benefit Explained
A VA Aid & Attendance benefit offers supplemental income for veterans or their surviving spouses. Your senior may already be in the care of a senior living facility, or may currently be receiving in-home care — this has no bearing on whether they qualify. If your loved one requires help with activities of daily living (ADLs), they may qualify.
Who Qualifies for the VA Aid and Attendance Benefit?
- They require a caregiver for assistance with personal care, such as bathing, dressing, or feeding.
- Your loved one spends a large portion of their day in bed due to an illness.
- He/she lives in a nursing home as a result of a physical or mental disability.
- Your loved one has limited eyesight (5/200 or less in both eyes) or has a visual field of 5 degrees or fewer.
Housebound Benefit Explained
Housebound benefits are for veterans or surviving spouses who are housebound due to some form of permanent disability. If a veteran or their surviving spouse requires help from someone else to leave their home for medical appointments, they could be eligible.
Who Qualifies for VA Housebound Benefits?
- Your loved one is confined to their home due to a permanent disability.
- They only leave their home to attend doctor appointments or to receive medical treatments.
Need assistance navigating veterans benefits? Get in touch with a Certified Placement Expert at Options for Senior Living. Call 602-845-1320.
