I have a friend whose mom is in a memory care unit. They're running out of money will the government help pay for veterans widow?

I have applied for assistance for my Mother who has been in an assisted living facility for a year. It has been over a year since they have had the paperwork. Exactly, how long does it take to get approval?

mgcarter-When you go to the VA center, there are people who take the information, and if you need help filling out the forms, there is also help. Our VA in Phoenix, AZ gave me that lengthy questionnaire for my husband's Aid & Attendance pension documents which are quite descriptive and your doctor signs it. Good Luck!

I have been gathering necessary papers and documents to apply for my mother to receive benefits. Your replies are very helpful. BTW: Who do you suggest we talk to at the VA? or is there an advocate that would be of more help?

Yes, there is Aid & Attendance through the VA if she requires someone to care for her - my mother gets this. It can take up to a year as Veterans take priority, but they will pay benefits back to the date of submittal.

Yes, as the wife of a veteran, she can get a pension from the VA. It took 3 months to get the first check, but they will send a lump-sum back pay. Her SSI and VA Pension pay for her assisted living rent which includes assistance with bathing, eating, 3 meals a day, etc.

Yes, as the spouse of a veteran, I have applied for my husband's pension for him (Aid and Attendance) and am awaiting approval. The documents can be filled out yourself, and you will need doctor's medical reports, tests showing dementia (or rather the abnormal brain), and a special form the VA has with lots of questions regarding the 24/7 needed care this person needs, and submit them. Expect several months for an answer as the VA is part of our ever-increasing government entity...Good luck!

Check out Veteran's Aid and Attendance. We're getting it for my mom, who has Alzheimer's and is being cared for at home. It's about $1100/month, but there are requirements - cost of care has to be more than income and things like that. We had the help of an eldercare attorney and it took almost a year, but it definitely helps. Good luck!