Throughout the month of November especially, we reflect on all the men and women who have served honorably in the military. The sacrifices they have made allow our country to remain strong, safe and free.
Serving in the military can often impact one’s health, both emotionally and physically. And for many veterans, young and old, disabling injuries may make it difficult to perform some of the basic activities we do every day – things that we often take for granted. These activities of daily living (ADLs) include things such as eating, bathing, dressing, toileting, mobility and transferring, and more.
Home care for veterans requires family caregivers to be strong, but also flexible. Many veterans live at home and need assistance around the house and providing this daily support can often drain family caregivers emotionally as they try to take on all the tasks their loved one needs.
That is where non-medical home care for veterans can help. Professional companion care and personal care services provided by a home care aide or caregiver can assist with everything from household duties such as cooking, laundry and running errands to individual needs like bathing and personal hygiene and mobility assistance.
Home care for veterans may be more affordable than you think
There are benefits that could help veterans pay for this much-needed assistance. VA Aid and Attendance benefits or Housebound allowance provide monthly payments added to the amount of a monthly VA pension for qualified veterans and survivors.
Individuals may be eligible for the VA Aid and Attendance benefit if they get a VA pension and meet at least one of the following requirements:
- They need another person to help them perform daily activities, like bathing, eating and dressing, or
- They must stay in bed—or spend a large portion of the day in bed—because of illness, or
- They are a patient in a nursing home due to the loss of mental or physical abilities related to a disability, or
- Their eyesight is limited
Veterans may be eligible for Housebound benefits if they get a VA pension and spend most of their time in their home because of a permanent disability. However, individuals cannot get Aid and Attendance benefits and Housebound benefits at the same time.
If you are caring for a veteran of the United States Armed Forces, make sure that your loved one is receiving the care and benefits they deserve, and that you – as the family caregiver – are getting the respite care you need. Your regional VA benefit office can be a great resource if you have questions about the benefits that are available to you and your family.
FirstLight Home Care is here to support veterans and their families when they need it most. Learn more about our Veteran Care services or request a personalized price quote from your local office.
VA Aid and Attendance or Housebound benefits provide monthly payments added to the amount of a monthly VA pension for qualified Veterans and survivors. If you or your loved one need help with daily activities, or you’re housebound, find out if you qualify.