Are you a Veteran living in Lynden, Bellingham, Ferndale or other parts of Whatcom County? First of all, we thank you for your service.
We want you to know that resources and assistance, earned while you served our country, may be available to you.
Did you know that the current Veteran population consists of those born as early as the 1920’s and continues to grow with each subsequent generation?
People are living overall healthier lifestyles and access to healthcare keeps improving which means our Veterans are living longer too.
Living longer means Veterans who may need personal care assistance will have additional expenses that can be financially overwhelming—the good news is that financial help may be available. In this article we’ll share two options for extra funding for Veterans who need at-home care.
Aging Veterans and surviving spouses that need help with daily living
tasks (eating, bathing, getting dressed, medication administering, etc.), may qualify for Aid and Attendance or Housebound benefits.
It’s important to note that these benefits are paid in addition to monthly pension, and they are not paid without eligibility to Pension.
Aid and Assistance
A&A funding is provided in addition to a monthly Veteran pension and disability compensation. Aid and Assistance can help cover the cost of in–home care, assisted living, or a nursing home.
Individuals who are blind or a patient in a nursing home because of mental or physical incapacity may also qualify for A&A funding.
Housebound
The second option is called “Housebound”– which is funding that may be added to an existing monthly pension when a person is substantially confined to their home due to a permanent disability. This benefit is also paid in addition to a Veteran’s monthly pension—it’s not paid without eligibility to pension.
If you or a loved one is “housebound” in Whatcom County, and you qualify for Veteran’s benefits, hiring a licensed at-home caregiver can help relieve the stress and worry of daily caretaking.
For more information about funding options related to caregiving for Veterans, consult with Sue Sorensen from Take My Hand At-Home Care at 360-543-5777 or contact the Bellingham Veteran’s Office at 360-733-9226.
