Veterans Pursuing Well Being and Prioritizing Their Health
There are more than 8 million veterans over 65 years of age in the United States. * Members of the military are deeply proud to serve, and sometimes that makes them too proud to ask for help. Being on the receiving end of care is not a sign of weakness, but a privilege that veterans have earned through their service. Today, more than 14.3 million ** military family members are caring for members of our military and veterans. Did you know that as a veteran, you may be eligible for benefits that help cover the expense of home care services? If you or your spouse need assistance with activities of daily living like dressing, bathing, eating or mobility, memory care, or other support for a disabling condition or illness, your Veterans Affairs benefits may help, if otherwise eligible. That assistance could be for personal care, memory care and disability support. Several VA benefits may cover the expense of care in the convenience of your home and, in many cases, veterans are eligible for more than one program.
* https://www.census.gov/newsroom/press-releases/2023/aging-veterans.html ** https://www.rand.org/news/press/2024/09/24.html
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For Veterans seeking care through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), here are some tips to help navigate the process:
1. Understanding your eligibility and benefits Check your eligibility: Determine if you qualify for VA healthcare based on your service and discharge status. You may be eligible if you served in the active military, naval, or air service and were discharged under conditions other than a dishonorable discharge. Minimum duty requirements may apply, but there are exceptions. Know your benefits: Familiarize yourself with the health care services available, including medical, dental, mental health, and prescription drug services. Explore enhanced eligibility: You may qualify for enhanced eligibility status if you meet the minimum active-duty service and discharge requirements and at least one of these descriptions is true for you. Enhanced eligibility means that you will be placed in a higher priority group. This makes you more likely to get benefits. Example: Combat Veterans, those with service- connected disabilities, former POWs, and others may have enhanced eligibility that can lead to being placed in higher priority groups for care.
2. Applying for care Gather necessary documents: Have your Social Security number, military discharge papers (DD214 or other separation documents), and information on any other health insurance you may have ready. If you cannot locate your documents, you can request a copy of all of your military records through the National Archive (See link on page 6). Choose an application method: You can apply online, by phone, by mail, or in person at a VA medical center or clinic. Consider seeking assistance: Contact the VA, visit a VA facility for personalized guidance or contact a Veterans Service Officer (VSO). VSOs are VA trained professionals who can help you navigate the VA system, gather documentation, file your application, and even assist with getting disability ratings increased. You can find VSOs through veterans’ organizations like the VFW, American Legion, or state Veterans Affairs Departments.
3. Accessing care and resources Schedule your first appointment: Contact your local VA medical center to schedule an appointment with a primary care provider after you’ve been approved for VA healthcare. Utilize online tools: The My HealtheVet portal allows you to manage appointments, refill prescriptions, view medical records, and communicate securely with your healthcare team. Inquire about community care: If VA cannot provide timely care, you may be able to receive care from a community provider through the VA Community Care Program. Work with your VA care team to understand the process for referrals and authorizations.
Explore specialized programs: The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) provides a variety of specialized programs to cater to the unique needs and challenges faced by Veterans. These programs address a wide range of issues, including mental health, homelessness, caregiving, women-specific needs, and employment support. Take advantage of technology: Telehealth services are available for mental health care, primary care, and certain specialty services, which can be particularly helpful for veterans in rural areas or those with travel limitations. For telehealth technology assistance, contact the Office of Connected Care Help Desk (OCCHD). Call 866-651-3180, open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
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4. Overcoming stigma The VA promotes programs like the Ending Self Stigma (ESS) manual and resources such as the Veterans Crisis Line for confidential support. Veterans can also reduce self-stigma by recognizing mental health conditions as a medical issue, not a character flaw, and by connecting with other Veterans who have shared experiences. Connect with supportive people: Seek out support from friends, family, or support groups like Alcoholics Anonymous. Educate yourself: Learning about mental illness and addiction can help combat misinformation and self-stigma.
Seek professional help: Remember that seeking mental health or addiction treatment is a sign of strength and that you are not alone. The VA offers a variety of mental health services and resources.
Important contact information:
VA Health Benefits Hotline: 877-222-VETS (8387)
MyVA411 Main Information Line: 800-698-2411 Veterans Crisis Line: Call or text 988 (Press 1), or chat online for confidential support 24/7.
Find a VA location or in-network community care provider: Visit VA.gov.
Veteran Resources Eligibility for VA Health Care va.gov/health-care/eligibility Instructions and Enrollment Application for Health Benefits va.gov/find-forms/about-form-10-10ez/ Request for Military Service Records va.gov/records/get-military-service-records/ Direct Link for National Archives vetrecs.archives.gov/s/ Veterans Administration Pensions va.gov/pension/ Aid and Attendance va.gov/pension/aid-attendance-housebound/
Community Care Network va.gov/COMMUNITYCARE/programs/veterans/ CCN-Veterans.asp Find VA Locations va.gov/find-locations Veterans Service Officers List of Where to Find Help (nvf.org) My HealtheVet va.gov/health-care/manage-health/ Home and Community Based Services va.gov/geriatrics/pages/home_and_ community_based_services.asp VA Caregiver Support caregiver.va.gov/?utm_sources=geriatrics _left_menu
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We’re Here for You Our experienced team can help you explore available Veterans options, determine eligibility, and connect you with the right resources to make the most of your benefits.
Contact your nearest Visiting Angels location or call 800-365-4189 for more information.
Not all services are available at all locations. Please check with your local agency. Each Visiting Angels agency is a franchise that is independently owned and operated. The Franchisor, Living Assistance Services Inc., does not control or manage the day-to-day business operations of any Visiting Angels franchised agency. ®2025 Visiting Angels is a registered trademark of Living Assistance Services, Inc.
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