On this Independence Day, we remember those living veterans who have served our country, and we remind you that they are entitled to elder care benefits.
According to the 2015–2019 American Community Survey, the veteran population ages 65 and older numbered in excess of 18.2 million.
It is a fact that many veterans who are eligible for elderly benefits either do not know about them or do not pursue them. Unfortunately, this is care that is available when a veteran may be in most need of care.
Following is a list of some of the benefits available.
Aid and Attendance is an increased monthly pension amount paid if you meet one of the conditions below:
- You require help performing daily functions that may include bathing, eating, and dressing.
- You are bedridden.
- You are a patient in a nursing home.
- Your eyesight is limited to a corrected 5/200 visual acuity or less in both eyes, or concentric contraction of the visual field to 5 degrees or less.
Additionally, the VA has programs that include:
- Geriatrics Program
- Long Term Care
- Eligibility for Long Term Care
- Home Based and Community Services
- Nursing Home and Residential Care
- Geriatrics Research
How to Apply
The specific VA benefit or program web page will provide tailored information about how to apply for a particular benefit or program. Generally, servicemembers, veterans, and families, can apply for VA benefits using one of the methods below.
- Apply online using VA.gov, OR
- Work with an accredited representative or agent, OR
- Go to a VA regional office and have a VA employee assist you. You can find your regional office on this Facility Locator page.
- File your claim using an Application for Disability Compensation and Related Compensation Benefits (VA Form 21-526EZ). Print the form, fill it out, and send it to:
Department of Veterans Affairs
Claims Intake Center
PO Box 4444
Janesville, WI 53547-4444
As we said before, these are benefits available to veterans when they are likely at their most vulnerable. For more information or guidance, you can contact our office.
The law office of elder law attorney Scott C. Painter, P.C., is located in Wyomissing (outside of Reading, PA, in Berks County,) and offers trusted legal services in the areas of elder law, including nursing home planning, trust and estate services, and veterans benefits. Scott C. Painter is a Certified Elder Law Attorney (CELA®), and he is also a member of the National Association of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA).
If you have an issue or question, we encourage you to call us. With legal matters, time is of the essence. Call us for a consultation at 610-378-5140. The $300 consultation fee is waived if Attorney Painter is retained to perform services.