People who have served in the United States military are eligible for an assortment of different benefits as veterans. They make sacrifices during their service that can have a long-term impact on their physical and mental health, and they may then be eligible for special benefits programs when they later require support.
There are medical benefits available through the United States Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). In some cases, older veterans and those dealing with disabling medical conditions move into VA facilities or regularly visit such facilities to receive treatment. Other times, they may be eligible for benefits that allow them to remain in a more comfortable environment.
In some cases, veterans may be eligible for Aid and Attendance benefits. Aid and Attendance benefits can help supplement a veteran’s pension to cover the costs of in-person support if a veteran is unable to leave their home or routinely requires support for the basic functions of daily life.
Who may qualify for Aid and Attendance benefits?
Typically, a veteran must be eligible for a VA pension to qualify for Aid and Attendance benefits. Their spouse could also theoretically qualify in some cases. The benefit is essentially an increase to the monthly pension payment already received by the qualifying veteran to help cover their cost-of-living and support expenses.
The veteran typically needs to have served during wartime and provided at least 90 days of active-duty service. At least one of those days should include service during an active war. Those who receive a dishonorable discharge typically are not eligible for Aid and Attendance benefits.
What is required to apply?
The veteran applying for benefits generally needs to show that they require assistance with important activities like feeding themselves, getting dressed or performing basic hygiene tasks. Veterans who spend most of their time in bed or who must live in a nursing home due to a disability may qualify.
In some cases, those with limited eyesight may also qualify. Aid and Attendance benefits can help pay for the support an individual needs to live a healthy life while dealing with debilitating medical challenges during retirement.
Seeking more comprehensive and less common veterans benefits can be a challenge for those receiving a military pension. Learning more about Aid and Assistance benefits and other crucial VA benefits can help veterans enjoy the safest and most comfortable retirement possible in their golden years.