Veteran's Day just came and went, and although it is wonderful to take full notice of our veterans for a day, it really doesn't seem good enough. Is there any demographic more worthy of our very best than senior citizens who fought for our country? I don't think so. I believe we owe these amazing not only our honor, but our attention and care. Far too many veterans leave the military only to be forgotten by their country. They live their lives, struggling to stay healthy, often battling ailments and injuries sustained in the days of their service. When they finally decide to retire from their careers, they sometimes need financial help to get the type of care they need, but cannot afford it, and they do not know of any way out of this predicament.
But there is good news: help does exist for these senior veterans. In fact, it has existed for many years, but hardly anyone knew about it. According to the Department of Veteran's Affairs, the Aid and Assistance benefit exists for senior veterans who are in need of daily assistance for their health care and daily activities. This includes seniors who need to move into a nursing home or assisted living community, or those who need a caregiver at home.
How much assistance can they get? A substantial amount. A veteran and spouse can receive as much as $1900 per month through this fund. For single veterans, that figure is over $1600, and even widows of veterans can receive more than $1000. And since many assisted living and nursing home facilities cost between two and four thousand dollars, these funds could be a Godsend!
Although the benefit has been obscure for years, it has experienced a resurgence since being promoted by blogs all over the internet, including the New York Times blog. There are veterans all over the country who could use this help.
For more information about this benefit, and find out about qualifications visit the Department of Veteran Affairs.
No comments:
Post a Comment