Late last year, the United States Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) announced an 8.7% increase in veterans’ compensation benefits. The increase is effective January 2023 and is the highest compensation adjustment in the last 30 years.
These increases have already been reflected in January payments. The adjustment is helping millions of veterans and survivors supported through VA benefits. This includes the thousands of veterans receiving nursing home or other long-term care to achieve more financial stability and afford important care services.
Read on to learn about each of the affected benefits and how veterans are being supported.
What VA Benefits Are Increasing?
The increase announced by the VA matches the cost of living adjustment detailed by the United States Social Security Administration. The adjustments were designed to offset recent inflation and cost of living increases throughout the country.
Benefits impacted by the 8.7% cost of living adjustment include:
- Social Security and Supplemental Security Income: Supports senior veterans, whether disabled or retired
- VA Dependency Indemnity Compensation: Supports surviving spouses or family members of veterans who passed in the line of duty or from a service-related illness or injury
- VA Disability Compensation: Provided to veterans who were injured or developed serious illnesses during service that keeps them out of work
- VA Special Benefit Allowances: Covers automobile, clothing expenses, or Medal of Honor pensions
Using VA Benefits to Help Pay for Nursing Home Care
Care at a nursing home or long-term care facility is expensive. According to U.S. News Health, the annual cost of a private room at a nursing home is more than $100,000.
While some veterans might not be able to afford the full cost of long-term care, many veterans may use their VA benefits and social security to cover all or most of their nursing home care.
Additionally, the compensation increase for several of these benefits may allow veterans more options when choosing long-term care.
Raising Awareness of Veteran Nursing Home Abuse
Veterans may be more likely to need the services offered by nursing homes and long-term care facilities. In fact, from 2014 to 2018, the number of veterans in need of nursing homes increased by 14%. Researchers have projected this demand will continue to grow significantly in the coming years.
Unfortunately, nursing home staffing and training may not be able to keep up with the rising demand. As a result, some veterans may experience nursing home abuse.
Veteran nursing home abuse may include:
- Emotional abuse
- Financial abuse
- Neglect
- Physical abuse
- Sexual abuse
It is important to be mindful of the warning signs of abuse to keep veterans safe and healthy.
Warning signs of nursing home abuse among veteran residents might include:
- Broken or missing belongings, including credit cards
- Bruises
- Feelings of confusion and fear
- Isolation
The best ways to prevent abuse from happening are to ensure veterans have a community and support system and report any signs of abuse as soon as they are evident. This can keep veterans healthy and financially empowered to receive the long-term care they need.
Veterans sacrificed their lives to serve our nation. They deserve the best care and the utmost respect. The Nursing Home Abuse Center is committed to ensuring every senior gets the care they deserve.
If you or a loved one may have experienced physical abuse at a nursing home, our team at Nursing Home Abuse Center is here for you. Contact us at (855) 264-6310 today.
