Few things are more honorable than serving your country during a time of conflict. While you probably did not enlist to secure benefits, certain benefits are available to you. As you age, taking advantage of these benefits may help you better manage age-related problems, such as failing health or a natural reduction in income.
In 2018, the median age of veterans in the U.S. was 65. If you have reached that age, you should be certain you are not missing out on any valuable benefits. Here are some that are typically available to elderly veterans.
Health care
The Veterans Administration has doctors who specialize in geriatric care. Geriatric care is simply the diagnoses and treatments doctors provide to elderly patients. If you are a veteran over the age of 65, you may be eligible for long-term and geriatric care at a VA hospital, from a community provider or even in your own home.
Monetary assistance
If you struggle to care for yourself or to complete essential activities, you may also be eligible for Aid and Attendance financial compensation. To qualify for additional funds under this VA program, one or more of the following must apply to you:
- You need help with cooking, eating, bathing or other everyday activities.
- You cannot get out of bed.
- You have moved into a nursing home.
- You have a significant visual impairment.
While these are common benefits elderly veterans use to improve their quality of life, you may also be eligible for additional ones. Ultimately, securing all benefits you deserve may help you better plan for the rest of your life.