Injuries and illnesses incurred during service may affect the aging process in veterans. An assisted living facility can provide your loved one with the hands-on care they need to lead a safe and comfortable life.
What is Assisted Living for Veterans?
It’s a type of senior housing or nursing facility for veterans who require clinical or medical services or help with activities of daily living (ADL). If your loved one is a veteran and enrolled in the Veterans Affairs health system, they may qualify for financial benefits to pay for a community nursing home, state veterans home or a contracted assisted living facility.
Benefits of Assisted Living Care for Veterans
Constant medical care: If your veteran is sick or disabled, they will have access to 24/7 nursing services, such as pain management, wound care, therapy and rehabilitation. Staff will also help your loved one manage chronic conditions including diabetes, heart disease and Alzheimer’s.
ADL assistance: Does your mom or dad struggle with bathing, dressing, feeding themselves or using the toilet? Assisted living facility staff specialize in managing those activities. They’re also trained to help your loved one transition to assisted living as they get used to their new surroundings.
Personal space: Assisted living includes private and semi-private rooms and apartments. Your veteran can bring personal effects, furniture and treasured belongings to make themselves feel at home.
Socialization: Living with other veterans presents the opportunity for your loved one to interact with those who have similar life experiences. Socialization in assisted living can lower your senior’s risk of isolation, depression and dementia.
Why Veterans Might Choose Assisted Living
There are plenty of signs that it’s time for assisted living. Your parent might not be able to maintain their personal well-being and manage their household anymore. Living in a senior community allows them to retain their independence without having to worry about chores and maintenance.
Your mom or dad could also benefit from moving to an assisted living facility for veterans if they have a health condition that requires consistent care. Chronic pain and reduced mobility are other common reasons to move to assisted living.
Who’s Eligible for Veterans Benefits for Assisted Living?
Eligibility depends on the type of benefits. Generally, the following criteria are required to receive a veteran’s pension:
- You must be an active member or veteran of the United States Armed Forces, or a spouse or dependent of a veteran.
- You must have served at least 90 days of active service, including one day during wartime.
- You must have received an honorable discharge.
- You cannot have an income exceeding $150,000, including income and assets from your spouse and dependents.
How Can Veterans Pay for Assisted Living?
While VA benefits don’t directly pay for assisted living, your loved one can delegate funds to pay for care. The annual benefit rates are relative to a veteran’s marital status and number of dependents.
VA Pension: This tax-free monthly payment is for wartime veterans with low income and is used at their discretion. Annual pension rates range from $16,000 to $21,000.
VA Aid and Attendance: These funds are available as an addition to VA pensions. Your veteran must live in an assisted living community or receive in-home care. To qualify, they must require assistance with ADLs, be bedridden due to illness, have a physical or cognitive disability or have a severe visual impairment. Annual rates are $17,000 to $42,000.
VA Survivors Pension: This pension is intended for the surviving spouses and dependents of fallen service members. Payments are based on wartime service and financial needs and could total $2,000 to $14,000 yearly.
VA Disability Compensation: This benefit is for veterans who became ill or sustained an injury during their enlistment. It also applies to those who had a preexisting condition that worsened because of their service. Payments are based on a disability rating percentage and could be between $165 to $3,000 a month.
Medicaid: This program is funded by state and federal governments to help low-income individuals access health care. It covers children, families, pregnant people, seniors and the disabled. Medicaid doesn’t cover the cost of room and board in an assisted living facility, but it can fund the care they receive while in residence. The dollar amount is subject to state regulations and eligibility requirements.
Assisted Living for Veterans at Embassy Healthcare
The Embassy Healthcare team honors all who have served our country. We’re committed to providing veterans with the services they need to live a comfortable and happy life. Our assisted living facilities provide personalized long-term care for seniors who wish to live independently but require help with ADLs.
Learn more about our assisted living care and schedule a tour of one of our facilities in Ohio, Pennsylvania, Virginia and Florida.
