Skip to content

Veteran Benefits and Services

Accessing Support for Health, Independence, and Financial Security

Close image of the flag of the United States of America

As Veterans age, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) will provide benefits and services that address a variety of issues including access to healthcare, living with disability, mental health services, and financial challenges. Understanding these resources can help ensure that Veterans receive the care and assistance they deserve.

Health Care Benefits

  • VA Health Care
    Local VA health clinics offer a range of services to eligible Veterans, including primary and specialty care, mental health support, and prescription medications. They also provide geriatric care services, such as home-based primary care and adult day health programs (see What is the Day Center of Evergreen Commons), as well as hospice care and nursing home care. Enrollment in VA health care is based on factors like service history, income, and disability status.
  • Geriatric Evaluation
    This comprehensive assessment helps older Veterans determine their health care needs, creating personalized care plans that address medical, psychological, and social factors. It’s especially valuable for Veterans experiencing chronic conditions or cognitive decline.

Disability Compensation and Pension

  • Disability Compensation
    Veterans who have sustained injuries or developed medical conditions due to military service may qualify for disability compensation. This tax-free benefit offers monthly payments based on the severity of the disability and its impact on the Veteran’s ability to work. Older Veterans may be eligible for increased benefits as their conditions progress.
  • VA Pension
    Wartime Veterans aged 65 or older with limited income and assets may qualify for a pension, which provides monthly payments to help cover living expenses.

Long-Term Care and Support Services

Aid and Attendance Benefit
This important benefit offers additional financial support to Veterans and/or their surviving spouses who require assistance with daily living activities. It can help cover in-home care, assisted living, or nursing home expenses–providing crucial support for those needing long-term care.

State Veterans Homes
These facilities offer nursing, domiciliary, and adult day care services to Veterans. State Veterans Homes provide quality care at reduced costs, and some states prioritize admission for Veterans aged 60 and older. Services vary by state, so it's important to check with your local Department of Veterans Affairs.

An older woman and man smiling wearing blue and plaid.

Housing Assistance

  • VA Home Loan Program
    This program offers favorable financing to help Veterans purchase, refinance, or adapt homes to meet age-related needs.
  • Adapted Housing Grants
    Older Veterans with service-connected disabilities may qualify for Specially Adapted Housing (SAH) or Special Housing Adaptation (SHA) grants, which assist in modifying or purchasing homes for safety and accessibility.

Other Essential Services

  • Counseling and Mental Health Services
    Aging Veterans may face mental health challenges related to their military service, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, or depression. The VA provides tailored counseling services, support groups, and resources to meet these needs. The Veterans Crisis Line is also available 24/7 by dialing 988.
  • Burial Benefits
    The VA offers burial and memorial benefits, including a gravesite in a national cemetery, a government-issued headstone or marker, and a burial flag.

Veterans aged 60 and older have access to a wide range of services and benefits designed to support their health, independence, and financial security. Whether it's accessing healthcare, securing housing, or receiving financial assistance, these resources honor the service of our Veterans by ensuring they receive the care they deserve.

For more information about these benefits and how to apply, contact the U.S. Veterans Affairs Office at 1-800-698-2411 or visit www.va.gov.

We're here for additional resources.

If you have questions regarding any other resources, please reach out to our Resource Center:

Connect With Us