Hello - I need some help and guidance. I am active duty Navy ... but I am treading water in a territory I am not familiar with. My father-in-law is 84 and his health declined really fast over the past 2 weeks, now he is in hospice. He is struggling to breath and the inevitable is near. My goal is to make sure he gets taken care of in the respectable manner he deserves and that his wife is taken care of. She has demencia but is still manageable right now. Our plan is to have her move in with us for at least the time being. He is a disabled vet .. his VA benefit is about $370/month. He also received SS at about $500/mo. She receives her small pension and SS at about $1330/mo. Is there something she can qualify for. I know there are some entitlements. I also know that he can be buried in a VA cemetery and his wife can be buried beside him. I think that is the plan. What benefits can we get for him? How do I get them. Because we are going to take care of his wife - I've been told there is something called veterens aide and attendants special pension that she may qualify for. Anyone heard of it. I just need some guidance. Thanks. Regards.
First, I'm sorry for your situation. It's commendable that you are willing to take care of your family. Kudos. My mom was in home hospice care for a few months. I found the Social Worker to be an invaluable resource. Not sure if your father-in-law is in home hospice or in a hospital, but either way, there should be a Social Worker that can at least give you some input. Home hospice definitely has Social Workers...the hospital should have a few on staff. We also contacted a local senior center. They gave us some direction. Maybe try local VFW or American Legion...even if he isn't a member they should at least be able to give you some resources. Also contact your local, state and federal representatives, many can help you with finding out about services that you need. I hope this helps. Thoughts and prayers are with you.
CW4Gregor, check with the nearest military base. They usually have someone assigned to provide survivor and death benefit information. It can be any service branch and does not have to be Navy. Also check directly with the VA. They should be able to confirm whether or not that type of assistance is available.
Welcome matey. Your situation is surely a touching one and I can feel the lack of quidance in your post, I wish I could help but I fear this is something I am not good at. I only hope you can find what you are looking for. Good luck,