Our elderly veterans deserve dignified help. As they grow older, they face new challenges regarding their health, mobility, and daily living. 

Fortunately, a wide range of veterans assistance programs is available to ensure elderly veterans receive the care they deserve. From financial support to in-home services, these benefits help veterans live more comfortably while easing the burden on their families. 

If you are seeking trusted veterans care in Cleveland Ohio, you are in the right place. This guide explains the most important VA benefits, what they cover, and how BrightStar Care supports local veterans.

What Kind of Help Is Available for Elderly Veterans?

Aging veterans and their families often wonder what kinds of support are available. The good news is that several veterans benefits for elderly care exist to make life easier, financially and practically. Here are the main options:

1. Aid & Attendance (A&A) Pension.

This monthly benefit supports veterans who need help with daily living activities, such as bathing, dressing, or eating. It also assists those who are housebound or living in nursing homes.

2. Homemaker and Home Health Aide Care.

This is a valuable part of VA benefits home care. It brings trained aides into a veteran’s home to help with personal care, meal preparation, light housekeeping, and companionship.

3. Respite Care.

Caring for an elderly veteran can be demanding. Respite Care gives family caregivers a break by offering short-term professional care at home or in a VA facility. This allows loved ones to rest and recharge.

4. Geriatric and Extended Care Services.

For veterans needing ongoing support, the VA provides programs such as adult day health care, skilled nursing, hospice, and palliative care. These services help with both short-term recovery and long-term planning.

Eligibility – Who Qualifies for Veteran Assistance?

Veteran don’t automatically qualify for all programs. Each type of support has rules that families need to understand to avoid delays. Here’s what to know about eligibility:

1. Military service requirements.

Veterans who began active duty before September 8, 1980, generally qualify if they completed at least 90 days of service, with at least one day during wartime. 

For those who enlisted after September 7, 1980, the requirement is longer. They need at least 24 months of continuous active duty, or the full term for which they were called, with a minimum of one day of wartime service. Officers who entered after October 16, 1981, must also meet this 24-month rule to qualify.

You should note that veterans with diishonorable discharge status usually do not qualify.

2. Income and asset limits.

The VA sets limits on yearly family income and total assets. Net worth includes property, savings, and investments, but excludes a primary home, one vehicle, and most household items.

3. Disability or age.

Veterans must be 65 or older, permanently disabled, in a nursing home due to disability, or receiving Social Security Disability benefits.

4. Medical necessity.

For some VA programs that cover in-home senior care, a physician must confirm the veteran needs help with daily living tasks, or is largely housebound.

What Products Are Covered Under VA Benefits for Senior Veterans?

VA assistance can provide both hands-on services and essential items that make daily life safer and more manageable. Here are the main categories:

• Personal care support: Our veterans need help with bathing, dressing, grooming, and eating to maintain dignity and independence at home. Hence, the VA provides personal care assistance for senior veterans.
• Durable medical equipment: Items like wheelchairs, walkers, hospital beds, oxygen supplies, and lift devices. These products improve mobility and reduce the risk of accidents.
• Home modifications: Veterans may qualify for support with installing ramps, grab bars, stair lifts, or widening doorways to make living spaces safer and more accessible.
• Medication and transportation assistance: VA programs can cover medication, prescription delivery, and transportation to medical appointments.

How to Apply or Get Help Navigating the Process

The application process for VA benefits may seem daunting for those who don’t know where to start. Here’s how families can get started:

• Gather the right documents: Veterans will need discharge papers (DD-214), financial records, and medical reports confirming the need for daily assistance. Having these ready speeds up the process.
• Complete VA forms:These forms can be submitted online, by mail, or at a local VA office. 
• VA Form 21-2680: For Aid & Attendance benefits.
• VA Form 10-10CG: For the Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers. 
• Use accredited help: Accredited Veterans Service Officers (VSOs) guide families through paperwork at no cost to ease the process.
• Access VA & state resources: Families can visit VA Forms & Applications or call the VA’s main line at 800-827-1000. The VA Caregiver Support Line (855-260-3274) is also available. Locally, the Ohio Department of Veterans Services (ODVS) offers personalized support and connects veterans to benefits right in their community.

How BrightStar Care Supports Veterans

Beyond federal and state programs, local providers make a big difference in the lives of veterans. At BrightStar Care, we are proud to support those who served by offering compassionate services right here in the community.

Our team provides in-home care for seniors in Cleveland. These services range from personal assistance with bathing, grooming, and meal preparation to skilled nursing for veterans. We also offer respite care to give family caregivers peace of mind and time to recharge. 

For veterans navigating paperwork or VA benefits, our staff can guide families and coordinate with programs to ensure services are covered whenever possible.

Conclusion

Our veterans gave their strength, courage, and dedication to protect our country. As they age, it’s our responsibility to ensure they receive the same level of care and support they once gave to us. 

With a combination of VA benefits, state programs, and local providers like BrightStar Care, families can feel confident that their loved ones are cared for with dignity and respect. If you’re ready to explore your options, reach out today. You can schedule a free consultation to learn how BrightStar Care can help your veteran live safely and comfortably at home.