Caring for our parents is a responsibility that many of us face in our adult lives. The task can become even more challenging when they're military veterans as we navigate the unique support and resources they may require. As an adult child, understanding and accessing the programs and services available specifically for your veteran parent can make all the difference in helping them age comfortably and with dignity. Here's some information that can help!
Medical Care Assistance Programs
One of the primary concerns when caring for veteran parents is ensuring they have access to quality medical care. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) provides several medical care assistance programs.
VA Medical Benefits
This healthcare package covers a wide range of services, including preventative care, diagnostic services, surgery, and emergency care. Eligibility for VA Medical Benefits is determined by factors such as military service history, disability status, and income. You can visit the Veterans Affairs website or your local VA medical center to apply.
VA Community Care
This program is available for veterans who cannot access care at a VA facility or need specific services not provided by the VA, such as home health or adult day care. To access VA Community Care services, veterans must be enrolled in VA healthcare and meet specific eligibility criteria. Talk with your parent's VA healthcare provider or a VA social worker to discuss their options.
Tricare for Life
TRICARE is the military healthcare program for active duty military. For those eligible for TRICARE and Medicare, TRICARE for Life offers comprehensive medical coverage. To enroll, your parent must be eligible for Medicare Part A and B and should contact the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS) to update their information.
Financial Aid and Pension Benefits
Your veteran parent may qualify for financial aid or pension benefits to help with their daily living expenses.
VA Disability Compensation
This is a tax-free benefit paid to veterans with disabilities resulting from their military service. The amount varies based on the severity of the disability. To apply for VA Disability Compensation, you can visit the Veterans Affairs website or work with a Veterans Service Officer (VSO) to complete the necessary paperwork.
Aid and Attendance Benefits
Also sometimes called Housebound Benefits, Aid and Attendance Benefits are additional benefits available for veterans and survivors who need assistance with activities of daily living. The eligibility criteria include being 65 or older, being a wartime veteran or survivor, and meeting certain income and asset limits. You can apply at your local VA Pension Management Center.
VA Pension
The VA Pension is a tax-free, income-based benefit for wartime veterans who meet specific criteria. To be eligible, veterans must have limited income and assets, be 65 or older or permanently disabled, and have served during wartime. You can apply through the Veterans Affairs website or with the assistance of a VSO.
Mental Health Resources
Mental health support is essential for the well-being of aging veterans who may struggle with PTSD, depression, or anxiety. The VA offers mental health services such as counseling, therapy, and medication management. You can discuss eligibility and access to these services with your parent's VA healthcare team.
Vet Centers
These community-based counseling centers provide free, confidential counseling to veterans and their families. To locate a Vet Center near you, visit the Veterans Affairs website or contact VA Wilkes-Barre Health Care.
The VA Caregiver Support program offers resources and support for family caregivers, including mental health counseling and support groups. Contact your local VA Caregiver Support Coordinator for more information.
Social Networks and Community Support
Veteran organizations like the American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), and Disabled American Veterans (DAV) provide veteran seniors with social networks and community support. These organizations offer resources such as financial assistance, advocacy, and camaraderie. To join, visit their respective websites or your local chapter.
Let Us Help You Look After Your Senior Vet Loved Ones
By understanding the medical, financial, and mental health resources available, you'll be better equipped to support your loved one. For those living in Allentown, Bethlehem, Kutztown, Nazareth, Whitehall, and Schnecksville, Senior Helpers Lehigh Valley is here to provide compassionate and professional care for your veteran loved ones, from assistance with daily self-care tasks to friendly companionship. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help support you and your family.