The VA offers several programs to support veterans and their families in maintaining independence and preventing burnout. Most of these programs are free or available for a small co-pay, depending on the veteran’s circumstances. For a person living with dementia and their care partners, VA benefits and services can be a tremendous help.
VA Programs at a Glance
There are two main systems under the VA umbrella through which veterans and their families can obtain services: the Veterans Health Administration and the Veterans Benefits Administration. Each has its own processes for accessing support.
Veterans Health Administration
- Oversees long-term care, caregiver support, and home and community-based care.
- Connect to services through primary care team (doctor, social worker, etc.) at a VA healthcare clinic or medical center.
Veterans Benefits Administration
- In charge of pensions, disability payments, and other monetary benefits.
- Connect to services through the Office of Military & Veterans Affairs (OMVA) or Veteran Service Organization (VSO).
Support Through the Veterans Health Administration
To access support from the Veterans Health Administration, a veteran must be enrolled in the VA Healthcare System. In other words, they have a primary care physician through the VA and receive medical care at a VA clinic. For veterans living with dementia and their care partners, the following services may be especially helpful. Veterans caring for non-veterans may also qualify.
- Adult Day Health Care – Those needing help with activities of daily living can go to a program during the day for recreation and medical care.
- Caregiver Support Program – Offers a wide range of services for care partners such as education, support groups, peer mentoring, individual coaching, and telephone support.
- Homemaker and Home Health Aide Care – An aide comes to the home to assist with personal care services, activities of daily living, and household tasks.
- Long Term Care – Depending on eligibility, a person may have extra care services covered in assisted living (not room and board). They may also qualify for care at a nursing home.
- Respite Care – Short term care services to allow care partners to take a break or run errands. Care can take place at home or through a local residential facility or adult day program.
- Veteran Directed Care – Provides a flexible budget for an individual to hire helpers to meet their care needs. This allows them to live safely and independently at home.
For more information, talk to the veteran’s primary care physician or social worker if already enrolled in the VA Healthcare System. Caregiver support is also available through the San Diego Caregiver Support Coordinator at 858-642-1215. If not already enrolled in the VA Healthcare System, contact 877-222-8387 or visit www.va.gov to apply.
Support Through the Veterans Benefits Administration
The Veterans Benefits Administration oversees programs that provide financial support or monetary compensation. These programs include:
- Service Connected Disability Compensation – Monthly disability pay for those disabled by a “service- related” injury or illness. This is a condition brought on or worsened during active military service.
- Non-Service Connected Pension – Financial support for low-income veterans. To qualify you must be age 65 and older or have a disability.
- Aid and Attendance – Funding added on to pension or disability payments for veterans who are vision impaired or disabled and require regular care. They may require care at home or in a care facility.
For more information, call the Office of Military and Veterans Affairs (OMVA) at 866-726-8831 or visit their website. Veteran Service Organizations (VSOs) can also provide application and claims assistance through accredited VA representatives. Note: By law, VSOs must provide this service free of charge. Be cautious of anyone charging a fee for VA application assistance.
Seek Assistance as Early as Possible
There are many unknowns throughout the course of this disease, and applying for VA benefits and services can take time. If you are a veteran or caring for a veteran, it is important to understand the benefits that are available to you. Don’t wait until there is a definite need or crisis; reach out early to get the process started!
For personalized dementia support, call us at 858.492.4400 to speak with one of our Dementia Care Coaches who are here to help San Diego County residents and/or those caring for someone living in San Diego County (Spanish speakers available). Also check out our free education classes, social activities, caregiver support groups, & more.
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Posted on August 11th, 2025
