Are There VA Benefits For Assisted Living? Where to Find Answers You Need
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We carry a deep sense of gratitude for those brave men and women who have served our country. As our nation’s veterans age, many will need assistance with everyday activities.
There are approximately 8.1 million veterans in the U.S. who are aged 65 and older. This represents almost half of the total veteran population, according to Statista.
As those veterans age, many will need the kind of services assisted living offers, and our team at Cedar Cove is more than happy to serve those who served us. However, the question often arises about VA benefits for assisted living. What are the qualifications? How do you access them?
But before we go in depth with this subject, it’s important to realize that there are very stringent rules for these benefits—not only how you can qualify, but what they can be used for. Therefore, we encourage everyone reading this article to visit the VA website to ensure you have the latest and most accurate information.
Can VA Benefits Help Cover Assisted Living Costs?
In general, VA benefits do not cover the cost of room and board associated with assisted living. However, some medical services may be covered under standard health benefits, although a copay may still be required.
In addition, the VA does offer pension enhancers that can help with the cost of assisted living. This Aid and Attendance benefit provides money toward help with daily activities such as bathing, feeding or dressing. Surviving spouses may also qualify for this benefit.
The Aid and Attendance benefit has very specific parameters you must meet to qualify. You can visit this website for more detailed information.
Who Is Eligible for Assisted Living VA Benefits?
Essentially, those eligible for VA benefits are those who have served a minimum of 90 days of active duty, and at least one of those days must be during a designated wartime period. They also must have an honorable, general or medical discharge.
In addition, they must need medical assistance and help with activities of daily living, such as dressing and showering. There are also financial and asset thresholds that will be considered.
Surviving spouses and dependent children may qualify for benefits as long as they meet certain criteria.
There are a lot of details when exploring VA benefits for assisted living, so we encourage you to speak with your VA representative for the most accurate information.
What Assisted Living Services Are Offered for Veterans?
Veterans receive the extensive scope of care that other residents in our assisted living community in Wilmington receive. This includes:
- Medication management
- 24/7 assistance
- Nursing care
- Physical and rehabilitative therapies
- Assistance with the tasks of daily living (dressing, bathing, etc.)
What Assisted Living Services Are Offered for Families of Veterans?
As we mentioned above, families of veterans who need assisted living will have access to the same scope of services listed above.
As far as financial benefits, spouses and dependents may qualify. However, as we mentioned earlier, the VA benefits for assisted living do not cover room and board.
Confused by What Is Offered Through VA Benefits for Assisted Living? Contact Cedar Cove
We understand that the transition to assisted living is often overwhelming. You’re likely bombarded with extensive information, and it can become difficult to maneuver your way through this process. We’ll let you know what is and is not covered under VA benefits.
But don’t worry. At our assisted living community in Wilmington, we’ve helped hundreds of residents get a new address to call home. And we emphasize the word “home.” Our environment is geared to provide seamless care in a home-like environment to put your mind at ease as you explore new hobbies and make new friends.
Want to have the peace of mind that comes from knowing someone is looking out for you 24/7? We invite you to contact us for a tour. We look forward to meeting you.
The information in this article is for educational purposes only. For more details about VA benefits and eligibility, please refer to the official government website for the Department of Veterans Affairs or speak with a VA representative.
Key Takeaways:
- Nearly half of the U.S. veteran population is aged 65 or older, and many will require assistance with daily activities as they age.
- VA benefits generally do not cover assisted living room and board, but some medical services and pension enhancers may help offset costs.
- The VA Aid and Attendance benefit can provide additional financial support for veterans or surviving spouses who need help with daily living tasks.
- Eligibility for VA assisted living benefits depends on military service history, discharge status, medical need, and financial and asset limits.
- Surviving spouses and dependent children may qualify for certain VA benefits if they meet specific criteria.
- Veterans and their families receive the same comprehensive assisted living services offered to all residents at Cedar Cove.
- Because VA benefit rules are complex and frequently updated, veterans and families are encouraged to consult the VA directly for the most accurate information.
- Cedar Cove Assisted Living provides guidance, care, and a supportive home-like environment to help ease the transition into assisted living.
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Sources:
AssistedLiving.org, “Veteran’s Benefits You Didn’t Know Existed,” https://www.assistedliving.org/assisted-living-near-me/assisted-living-veterans-benefits-didnt-know-existed/
Statista, “U.S. Veterans By Age and Gender,” https://www.statista.com/statistics/250267/us-veterans-by-age-and-gender/
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, “VA Benefits,” https://benefits.va.gov/benefits/
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, “Geriatrics and Extended Care,” https://www.va.gov/GERIATRICS/pages/Assisted_Living.asp
