Does VA pay for spouse nursing home charges?

A fellow caregiver asked...

Step father was in Army and was fully disabled and discharged. He has passed away many years ago and now my mother needs full time nursing home care. Can she get VA coverage for this? She does get step fathers pension each month.

Expert Answer

Nan Hayes is founder of MoveSeniors.com, the national resource network of Certified Relocation and Transition Specialists for seniors, and President of RightSized Living, a senior home transition service in Illinois.

The Veteran's benefit know as Aid and Attendance can help pay for care in the home, Nursing Home or Assisted Living facility. According to 2012 information, a Veteran is eligible for up to $1,732 per month, while a surviving spouse is eligible for up to $1,113 per month. A Veteran with a Spouse is eligible for up to $2,054 per month and a Veteran with a Sick Spouse is eligible for up to $1,360 per month. (eligibility and restrictions may apply). Some, but not all State Veteran's nursing home will also admit non-veteran spouses. You may find out more about these benefits at the VA's long terms care website[va.gov] .