I’ve called the VA but was told my dad didn’t qualify for financial assistance due to not serving during wartime. But he was career military in the guards for over 20 years after active 4 year naval duty. He has Tricare for life so if he qualifies for that should he not qualify for some kind of financial help to live in an assisted living facility? Can anyone advise me in this?
Check online for agencies that specifically help with VA benefits in Alabama and perhaps they can advise you further. I used a State Dept of Military & Veteran's Affairs Officer for the VA here in Denver when I applied for my father's Aid & Attendance benefits. But he was active duty Army during WWII. Being career military and being active during wartime are two different matters.
Wishing you good luck in your quest for financial assistance!
Aide and Attendance you need to serve during wartime. But he may qualify for other benefits. If he was in the Navy for 4 years I would think that would get him something.
"A person who served in the active military, naval, or air service and who was discharged or released under conditions other than dishonorable may qualify for VA health care benefits including qualifying Reserve and National Guard members"
Be aware though, that Dad may be entitled to benefits, but Mom may not be. I know a couples where the husbands use the Vet hospital and doctors but the wives need to get their own insurance suppliments. Both men served in Viet Nam for 1 year, serving for the required 2 yrs after being drafted.
The VA has made some changes recently, but I don't recall whether or not they affect eligibility. I do recall receiving one of the regular e-mail updates on eligibility, but I didn't check out all the links.
I've found though that the VFW and American Legion have advisers who are very knowledgable in understanding of the various levels of VA qualification.
You could also contact your local County or State VA office if you have one. These advisors really, really are helpful.
Another route is to find out what assistance they can give to you as caregiver, and go from there to locate his team and social worker for more specific advice.
https://www.agingcare.com/discussions/veterans-food-assistance-and-caregiver-assistance-programs-462976.htm
I wish you luck and success in getting more information.
" Vietnam era: The period beginning on February 28, 1961, and ending on May 7, 1975, inclusive, in the case of a veteran who served in the Republic of Vietnam during that period. The period beginning on August 5, 1964, and ending on May 7, 1975, inclusive, in all other cases. (Note: From February 28, 1961 to Aug 4, 1964, vet must have boots on the ground.)"