Monday, December 12, 2011

Long Term Care Benefits for Veterans

The acquisition of long-term care benefits for veterans has long been a subject of major concern for Seniors and their families at the Lodge.  It is a topic we regularly address with our residents and prospective residents because of its potentially huge impact in their financial lives.  In order to keep our residents well informed and make the process of applying for VA benefits as easy as possible, we have enlisted the help of trained and trusted volunteers to help them through the process.  Before sitting down with a volunteer, though, it is important to be as well informed as possible.

The Veterans Administration Non-Service Connected Disability Pension is designed to provide qualified veterans and their surviving spouses with a tax-free pension benefit.  This pension was formed in 1952 under Title 38USC to provide a tax-free monthly pension to help defray the costs of long-term care at home, in assisted living facilities, or in nursing homes.  The pension offers reimbursement for medical expenses not covered by insurance and Medicare.

While it can be frustrating for seniors to file for their benefits, the financial gains for qualifiers can make a huge difference in their lives.  We encourage all veterans and their spouses to carefully review their situations to see if they qualify and explore ways to maximize their benefits if they do.

In order to receive this aid the veteran must have served at least one day during wartime with 90 days of active duty.  Disability does not have to be related to service, but an honorable or general discharge is necessary to have your application considered.

The next area of qualification is medical.  The veteran or surviving spouse must need the assistance of another person to perform daily tasks.  And finally, assets and income are taken into consideration.  The assistance that comes with living at Sun Valley Lodge is a great way to demonstrate the fulfillment of these two requirements and our volunteers can help make sure you are properly positioned to take advantage of the benefits earned through service to our country.



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