The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers more than just financial benefits to retired, disabled, or sick soldiers. Long-term care and assisted living are some services you can access through the VA. Read on to learn all the details of these benefits.
First of all, all enrolled veterans may be eligible to receive long-term care and assisted living services. The only requirements are that the service is available in your area and that you have a clinical need to use it.
Keep in mind that to receive these services is not enough to receive VA disability benefits, you must also register for VA health care, formally called the Standard Medical Benefits Package, in order to access long-term services.
What long-term care services does the VA offer?
For sick or disabled veterans, the VA offers:
- 24/7 medical and nursing care.
- Physical therapy.
- Assistance with daily tasks such as bathing, dressing, preparing food, and taking medicine.
- Comfort care and help with pain management.
- Support for primary caregivers who need skilled help or a break to work, travel, or run errands.
These are the services for senior veterans:
- Geriatric assessment to determine your health care needs and set a care plan.
- Adult day care health.
- Home care.
- Home health aide care.
- Respite care.
- Skilled home health care aide.
Do I have to pay for VA long-term care?
The VA covers some long-term care services under your standard health benefits. However, some services are on a co-pay basis. Others are not covered by VA health benefits, but you can pay for them through Medicaid or Medicare.
The VA does not pay for housing and rooms in residential settings and retirement homes; however, you can still access Home and Community-Based Services if you live in a residential setting.
For more information, visit the VA website. Being informed is the first step to claiming the services you are entitled to for your service to your country.