ptsd 100% Sc And Smc For Vets With Alzheimer's

[twirlergirl]

My father has been considered 100% service connected disabled since 2002 due to PTSD 50%disabiling) and a severe injury to one of his arms (50% , 30% and 10% disabling for various reasons) during WWII. He recently moved into a secure (private) facility for persons with Alzheimer's disease. He has assets in excess of $80,000. His physician has certified that he appears to suffer from Alzheimer's disease and requires assistance with daily living.

Is he eligible for Aid and Attendance/Housebound benefits, or are these benefits given only to veterans that meet certain income thresholds? Are there any other monetary benefits that he might qualify for, in this circumstance? He receives the 100% disability compensation benefit from the VA today. I applied to the VA for Aid and Attendance for him, but the VA denied the claim because Alzheimer's disease is not related to his service-connected conditions. (It is never certain that a person has Alzheimer's until an autopsy is performed. However, he has all of the symptoms of Alzheimer's disease.)

I am new to this forum, and would really appreciate any advice or guidance. I have tried to read up on the VA's benefits online, but found them confusing. I am just trying to find out if he can receive more compensation from the VA, as the cost of the facility he lives in exceeds the amount of his monthly VA benefit and social security benefit. Thanks!

[Pete53]

Thanks for helping your Dad and yes I think it would not be to difficult to get him up to 100% with SMC. I would not press Alzheimers as the issue just that he is in nursing home that requires special care.

Many of these homes actually have people that can help you secure benefits.

Good Luck

[twirlergirl]

Thanks for helping your Dad and yes I think it would not be to difficult to get him up to 100% with SMC. I would not press Alzheimers as the issue just that he is in nursing home that requires special care.

Many of these homes actually have people that can help you secure benefits.

Good Luck

Thank you, Pete.

When you say "get him up to 100% with SMC," what do you mean? From what I understand, he is already 100% service connected disabled. Is that the same as "100% with SMC"? I am trying to find out if he is entitled to more compensation because he now has to pay to be in a special facility. How do I confirm what the highest amount of disability compensation a 100% service connected elderly veteran is entitled to receive (i.e., now that he needs assistance with daily living), so I can compare it to what he receives now? Thanks again.