Honoring Veterans Beyond Memorial Day: Accessing Benefits Like Aid & Attendance
As a nation, Memorial Day should remind us to reflect on the sacrifices made by military men and women who have defended our freedoms. Originally called Decoration Day in 1865 to honor soldiers fallen in the Civil War, the holiday was later expanded to recognize all service members who gave their lives in defense of our country. Today, however, Memorial Day has morphed into a summer kick-off event filled with sales, barbeques, and festivities—too often losing sight of its true purpose.
A powerful way to honor the memory of the fallen is to value the veterans who are still living among us. With nearly 25 million veterans nationwide, including 650,000 veterans in Washington state alone, it is crucial that we recognize and support those who have served—especially through veterans benefits like Aid & Attendance.
Aid & Attendance: An Overlooked Resource for Veterans and Their Families
One of the biggest challenges facing veterans is accessing benefits. Programs like Aid & Attendance have existed for more than 60 years, yet they remain poorly advertised and underutilized. According to the Senior Veterans Service Alliance, 75% of veterans qualify for Aid & Attendance, yet millions are unaware of their eligibility.
What is Aid & Attendance?
Aid & Attendance is part of the VA’s three-tier pension program, which also includes Basic Pension and Housebound benefits. It provides financial assistance for veterans and their surviving spouses who need help with activities of daily living, such as dressing, eating, or managing medications. Importantly, these benefits cover care in assisted living facilities, long-term care communities, and even home care services.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Veterans must have served during a time of war (combat service is not required).
- The veteran or surviving spouse must require assistance with daily tasks or have a physical or mental condition limiting independence.
- Veterans must have received an honorable discharge.
Aid & Attendance Monthly Benefit Rates
Below are the maximum monthly benefits available through Aid & Attendance:
- Veteran: Up to $1,704 per month
- Surviving spouse of a veteran: Up to $1,094 per month
- Couple (veteran and spouse): Up to $2,085 per month
The Application Process: Red Tape and Solutions
Although Aid & Attendance can be a lifeline for veterans, the application process is notoriously complex. Navigating the VA’s bureaucracy and meeting eligibility requirements can discourage many families from pursuing the benefits. Policy reforms are needed to simplify the process, but in the meantime, working with an experienced senior care advisor can ensure veterans get the help they deserve.
How Concierge Care Advisors Can Help Veterans Access Benefits
Co-founded by Vietnam-era veteran Marc Lilly, Concierge Care Advisors specializes in helping veterans and their families navigate the Aid & Attendance application process and access other earned benefits. Our team offers expert guidance to ensure veterans receive the care they need—whether in assisted living, long-term care communities, or at home.
This Memorial Day and every day, let’s honor those who have served by making sure veterans have access to the resources they’ve earned.
Call to Action: Get the Benefits You Deserve
If you or a loved one is a veteran or the surviving spouse of a veteran, contact Concierge Care Advisors today for help navigating the Aid & Attendance application process. Call us at 1-855-444-7364 or visit www.conciergecareadvisors.com for more information. Our veterans deserve nothing less.
