Are you a senior or family caregiver looking for assistance with senior care? You might be surprised to learn about the comprehensive and often underutilized benefits the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has to offer. Discover the assistance you may not have known was available.
1. Aid and Attendance (A&A)
One valuable yet often overlooked VA benefit is Aid and Attendance (A&A). This financial assistance program offers additional monthly payments to eligible veterans and their surviving spouses who need help with everyday tasks like dressing, bathing, or eating. To qualify, applicants must be already receiving a VA pension, require assistance with daily activities, or be bedridden due to a disability.
You can apply for A&A through your local VA office. You need to provide documentation supporting your need for assistance. If you qualify, this benefit can lighten the financial burden of care. This also makes it easier to maintain your independence and quality of life.
2. Home-Based Primary Care (HBPC)
Another fantastic VA benefit is Home-Based Primary Care (HBPC), a program that brings healthcare professionals directly to your home. This service is for seniors with complex health needs that make it challenging to visit a doctor regularly. Additionally, eligibility for HBPC requires enrollment in the VA healthcare system and a referral from your primary care provider.
3. Adult Day Health Care (ADHC)
Adult Day Health Care (ADHC)is another fantastic VA benefit that provides seniors with daytime care while offering their caregivers a much-needed break. This program offers social activities, therapy, meals, and more, all within a safe and supervised environment. To be eligible for ADHC, veterans must be enrolled in the VA healthcare system and require assistance with daily activities.
To access ADHC services, search for a local ADHC center on the VA website, or contact your nearest VA office for assistance. Once you find a center that fits your needs, you can enjoy the benefits of socialization, support, and care tailored to your unique needs.
4. Respite Care
Caring for a senior loved one can be both rewarding and exhausting. The VA offers respite care services to provide caregivers a temporary break while ensuring their senior family member continues receiving proper care. Respite care can take many forms, including in-home care, adult day care, and even short-term stays at assisted living facilities.
Eligibility for respite care typically requires enrollment in the VA healthcare system, as well as a demonstrated need for support. To access these services, consult with your primary care provider or local VA office. They will also help you find a respite care option best suited for your situation.
5. Geriatrics and Extended Care Services (GEC)
Lastly, the Geriatrics and Extended Care Services (GEC) program offers a variety of services for seniors with complex health needs. This can include palliative care, hospice care, long-term care, and more. To be eligible for GEC, veterans must be enrolled in the VA healthcare system, and a referral from their primary care provider is typically required.
GEC's broad range of services ensures that seniors have access to the care they need, regardless of their specific health challenges. To learn more about GEC and the services offered, contact your primary care provider or local VA office for guidance and support.
Senior Helpers Gastonia Offers Support for Veterans and Their Families
Seniors and family caregivers need to be aware of the lesser-known VA benefits available to them. From financial assistance like Aid and Attendance to healthcare services through Home-Based Primary Care and Adult Day Health Care, there is support waiting for those who qualify. Additionally, respite care, and Geriatrics and Extended Care Services can provide much-needed relief for caregiving family members. We encourage you to explore these benefits and see if you qualify. For those living in Gastonia, Iron Station, Belmont, McAdenville, and Dallas, contact Senior Helpers Gastonia today to find the support you need to thrive in your golden years.