Financial Assistance for Home Care and Community benefits through the VA

By Mary Frances M. Price, VA Accredited Attorney 

Veterans and surviving spouses trying to age in place in the Hennepin County community may benefit from one of two resources to help pay for home health care support. Options for veterans and their families to be aware of include the Non-service connected pension and other Home and Community Based Services accessible through the VA Health System. 

NON-SERVICE CONNECTED PENSION 

The Non-Service Connected Pension (NSC pension), sometimes known as “Aid and Attendance,” through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is a valuable benefit designed to provide financial assistance to eligible veterans who have limited income and need help with daily living activities. One of the key ways this pension can be used is to cover the costs of home caregiver services in Eden Prairie, MN, which is often essential for veterans who are aging or dealing with chronic conditions. This financial aid can be critical in allowing veterans to maintain their independence while receiving the care they need in the comfort of their own home. 

To qualify for the NSC pension, veterans must meet certain criteria, including age or disability requirements. Veterans must generally be 65 or older, or they must be permanently and totally disabled. Additionally, they must have served during a period of war, and their income and net worth must fall below specific limits set by the VA. Surviving spouses of veterans may also qualify for this pension under similar eligibility conditions. The amount of the pension varies based on income, but it can provide a significant supplement to help pay for services that veterans otherwise may not be able to afford. 

When it comes to home health care, the NSC pension can be used to pay for a variety of services, such as assistance with bathing, dressing, grooming, and meal preparation. It can also help cover the costs of hiring caregivers who provide companionship, housekeeping, and more specialized care like physical therapy or medication management. These services are crucial for many veterans who may no longer be able to live independently due to physical or mental health conditions but wish to avoid the disruption and expense of moving to a nursing home or assisted living facility. 

In summary, the non-service-connected pension from the VA provides critical financial assistance to veterans and their families, helping to cover the costs of home health care. By offering additional resources for those who need help with daily activities, the NSC pension ensures that veterans can age in place and maintain their independence. 

HOME AND COMMUNITY BASED SERVICES 

Veterans can access home health care services through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Health Administration, which offers several programs designed to support veterans who need assistance managing their health care needs at home. These programs are ideal for individuals looking for veteran care “near me” or families exploring in-home care “near me” options for their loved ones. 

First, veterans must be enrolled in the VA health care system. Enrollment is required to access any VA services, including home health care. Eligibility for VA health care depends on factors like military service history, discharge status, and income level. Once enrolled, veterans can access a range of health care services, including home-based care. 

The VA provides home health care through several programs, such as the Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) program, which includes home visits by nurses, physical therapists, and other medical professionals. Veterans may also receive personal care assistance or aid with daily living activities, depending on their health care needs. Additionally, the VA offers the Veterans-Directed Care program, allowing veterans more flexibility in managing their home care services, including hiring caregivers and directing their care plans. 

To start the process of receiving home health care through the VA, veterans should first contact their VA primary care provider or local VA medical center. A healthcare professional will evaluate the veteran’s needs and determine if home care is an appropriate option. In some cases, a home visit may be conducted to assess the veteran’s home environment and medical needs. Once approved, the VA will arrange the services needed, and care can begin through approved providers. 

Additionally, some veterans may qualify for the Veterans Health Administration’s (VHA) Family Caregiver Support Program, which provides training, resources, and financial support for family members who care for veterans at home. This can provide a comprehensive support system for veterans and their caregivers. 

Homewatch CareGivers of Eden Prairie is a reputable home care provider servicing Eden Prairie, Chaska, Chanhassen, Bloomington, Savage, Shakopee, and Excelsior.  To learn more about how Homewatch CareGivers supports veterans and if home care is the right option for you and your loved one, contact us at 612-238-5531. A complete list of service offerings is available at https://www.homewatchcaregivers.com/edenprairie. 

Contributing Author: Mary Frances Price has been accredited to practice before the VA since 2007. She is an experienced VA and Elder Law Attorney based in Minnetonka, MN. She co-founded the Bravura Group, P.C., a law and fiduciary services firm focused on estate, tax, family, elder and litigation practice. Mary Frances can be reached at MaryFrances.Price@bravlaw.com or www.Bravlaw.com.