It’s not something that any of us are extremely anxious to consider as we age, but the fact remains that senior citizens often require the aid or assistance of another person to help them meet their day-to-day physical needs. Many seniors get help from professional caregivers who come out to their homes, and others may be best served by residing in an assisted living facility or nursing home. This can clearly be expensive, especially for people of ordinary means who are living on a fixed income, and this would describe many former military people who are receiving VA pensions.

However, a good portion of those who have served our country are entitled to a benefit that can address this need. There is a military pension benefit called the VA Aid and Attendance Special Pension, and this is a payment above and beyond the regular pension check that retired veterans receive. Qualified veterans and spouses who need the assistance of another person to take care of their everyday physical needs are entitled to up to around $1,600 per month for a single person and close to $2,000 per month for a couple to address these needs (these figures are subject to change). This assistance can be used to pay for residence in an assisted living facility or a nursing home, and it can also be used for care that is administered in the home of the beneficiary.

The Veterans Administration Aid and Attendance Special Pension is something that many people are simply not aware of, and countless veterans who have been qualified to receive it have never applied because they didn’t know it existed. This underscores why it is always a good idea to consult with an elder law attorney when you are planning for your golden years. These legal professionals know the lay of the land and they will make sure that you get everything that you are entitled to for honorably serving our country. For more information and to apply for this important benefit, simply contact the U.S. Department of Veteran’s Affairs and inquire about the VA Aid and Attendance Special Pension.