Giving Back to Those Who Served Our Country – VetAssist® Program

Aging Veterans Can Get Assistance in Their Homes

Many people, including veterans and family members caring for veterans, are unaware that the VA (Department of Veteran Affairs) offers a special benefit to qualified war era veterans called Aid and Attendance – the VetAssist program.  It’s important to understand that the surviving spouse of a deceased veteran may similarly qualify for this benefit.

What are the criteria for qualification?

• First, of course, is U.S. military service – The VA confirms service during a time of war along with an appropriate type of discharge. In order to qualify there needs to be 90 days of service with at least one day during wartime (WWII, Korea, Vietnam, Persian Gulf). It is not required that the veteran was in battle or was serving in an active war zone.

• The second requirement is medical need defined by the need for assistance with two or more ADL’s (activities of daily living). There are six basic ADLs: eating, bathing, dressing, toileting, transferring (walking) and continence.

• The final thing they look at is income and assets, however, don’t be discouraged by thinking you or your loved one won’t qualify. The VA uses a formula that calculates eligibility based on reoccurring monthly medical costs in comparison to monthly income and available assets.  Many veterans think they have too many assets or “earn too much” when that’s not the case at all.

This tax-free benefit is distributed to qualified recipients on a monthly basis, much the same way social security is distributed.  The money is intended to help cover the cost of long term care in the home, in an assisted living facility or in a nursing home.

How do I initiate an inquiry with the VA?

The VA has an application process that includes filling out a 20 page application and providing a variety of documents such as DD-214 discharge paperwork, various income and asset statements and documents, medical needs documentation, etc.  It takes time, expect at least 2-4 months (or more) for the application and approval process.

Can Arista Home Care Solutions help with our VA application?

Yes, as a proud VetAssist® partner, we will provide you with a comprehensive checklist of required documents and other information, we will assist in preparing the VA application, and follow through on your behalf throughout the entire qualification process.  And the best part? Based on a quick review of your qualification, we can provide you with an interest-free loan to begin services within a few weeks, rather than a few months.  There’s one other “best part” – we have a large staff of trained Professional Care Aides® ready to provide the assistance needed, so you can remain safely and comfortably in your home.

____________________________________________________________________________

Toledo, Ohio-based Arista Home Care Solutions is the premier senior home care service in the area. Locally-owned and operated, we provide in-home care all throughout the region.