According to data from the United States Census Bureau, there are approximately 19 million veterans aged 18 and older in the U.S., with about 13 million aged 50 and older, and this number is expected to continue growing as more veterans reach retirement age. Homewatch CareGivers, a provider of in-home senior care, is working to encourage veterans and their families to explore their care options, understand their benefits and take full advantage of the programs designed to honor their service.
The agency's brand president, Todd Houghton, answered some of HomeCare's questions regarding veteran benefits and how home health care can make a difference in the growing sector serving aging veterans.
HOMECARE: What are some key ways veterans can access in-home care or hospice services through Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits?
HOUGHTON: To see if they’re eligible, they should first contact the VA and request a care needs assessment. This can be done by phone or in person. During this assessment, the VA evaluates the veteran’s medical needs—including assistance with daily activities, cognitive health, and mobility—and matches them with the most appropriate in-home care program.
Depending on the results, veterans may qualify for benefits such as Aid and Attendance (A&A) or Housebound Allowance. These programs provide financial assistance for eligible veterans and their spouses to cover a range of in-home care services, allowing them to receive the help they need when feeling most comfortable at home.
HC: Why are VA home health service programs important?
HOUGHTON: VA home health service programs are essential because they give back to those who have given so much to our country. Veterans have made incredible sacrifices for our country, and many face unique health challenges as a result of their service. Chronic illnesses such as PTSD, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease are common among veterans, significantly impacting their physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
The Aid and Attendance (A&A) benefit primarily supports in-home care needs but can also help cover services for veterans in skilled nursing facilities. Similarly, the housebound benefit assists veterans who are permanently disabled and unable to leave their homes. Veterans with a “housebound” rating can deduct fees paid to non-licensed in-home attendants providing “custodial services,” such as help with at least two activities of daily living, which include:
- Getting dressed
- Showering or bathing
- Cooking and feeding themselves
- Going to the restroom
- Transferring from the bed to a chair or wheelchair
- Mobility and transportation
- Grooming
In addition, housebound benefits allow veterans to receive a higher amount each month from the VA to cover their needs.
HC: What do you wish people knew about VA benefits?
HOUGHTON: There is a great deal of confusion about how VA benefits work and how to access them. For example, the Aid and Attendance (A&A) benefit is administered through VA Pension Management Centers rather than local medical centers, which is why some staff members may not mention it during appointments. Therefore, families often miss out simply due to a lack of awareness.
It’s also important to understand A&A and housebound benefits cannot be used at the same time, it’s one or the other. Additionally, the A&A benefit functions as a supplemental VA pension, not part of the VA healthcare system. It provides financial support to eligible wartime veterans and surviving spouses who need help with daily activities. To qualify, a veteran must:
- Have served at least 90 days of active duty, with at least one day during wartime
- Have received an honorable or other-than-dishonorable discharge
- Meet income, asset and medical need requirements
And lastly, unfortunately some unaccredited “benefit advisors” attempt to take advantage of veterans and their families by charging fees or making false promises to expedite claims. To avoid scams, never pay for VA services, and always work with a VA-accredited Veterans Service Officer from organizations such as the American Legion, DAV, VFW, or your county veterans service office. These professionals offer legitimate, free assistance.
HC: How can home health agencies get involved with veterans and how can they help ensure they’re accessing funds they’re entitled to?
HOUGHTON: In many cases, a veteran’s spouse is their primary caregiver. When a person’s caregiver experiences additional challenges or simply needs a break, home health agencies like Homewatch CareGivers can provide family caregiver support. Whether offering daily assistance or occasional help, agencies play a vital role in supporting both veterans and their families.
With this in mind, agencies should make it a priority to educate clients about VA programs—especially since many services can be free or discounted depending on eligibility. Every veteran’s healthcare journey is unique, shaped by their experiences and needs. By offering compassionate, personalized care, home health providers can enhance veterans’ quality of life and help them maintain independence.
HC: Are there any changing factors in veteran-focused health care that people should be aware of?
HOUGHTON: Yes, there are several factors shaping the future of veteran care, including:
- Expanded Access to Mental Health Services: Over the past five years, there’s been a significant push to prioritize veterans’ mental health, with more resources dedicated to counseling, crisis intervention and peer support.
- Telehealth & Remote Care: The VA and other organizations have embraced telemedicine, making it easier for veterans—especially those in rural areas—to access quality care without long travel times.
- Streamlined Benefits and Claims Processing: Technology upgrades have made it faster and simpler for veterans to apply for benefits, track claims, and receive support, reducing bureaucratic delays and frustration.
- Transition Support: Many veterans still struggle with the shift from military to civilian life. More comprehensive career counseling, mentorship, and job placement programs are needed.
- Holistic Family Support: Veterans’ families often face unique challenges. Expanding family counseling, childcare and financial planning resources would make a meaningful difference.