What advice do you have for a friend whose Vietnam vet father is in declining health and has no idea what benefits he may be eligible for?

2024-08-02T11:48:38-04:00

Hey everyone, can anyone give advice to a friend of mine? We don’t have tons of details here regarding his dad’s service. Mainly because he’s now in declining health that includes challenges with mental sharpness/Alzheimers/dementia type of stuff. He was in the Army during the Vietnam era for a few years. I don’t think he did a full 20 to get to retirement. I also think he was stateside in terms of where he was assigned; I dont think he deployed to the war. My question for you all is this — where would be the best place for my friend to start to understand any benefits that his dad may be eligible for? Specifically around at home care, hospital care, infirmary, or anything else that may be relevant here? Thanks for any advice here, and sending my love and respect to you all.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 2 at 2024 11:51 AM

2024-08-02T11:51:48-04:00

Any VSO that is local can assist with providing information; even a call to the VA can clear up the fog of available resources. And, if your friends' Dad is not enrolled in the VA system, that can be easily completed. Also, see if there is a Veterans Home near by. They, too, can clear up any fog.

Response by SrA John Monette made Aug 2 at 2024 12:08 PM

2024-08-02T12:08:23-04:00

Contact your state’s Veterans Affairs Department. Or any Veterans organization. Also, the nearest Veterans hospital will be able to assist

Response by CPT Lawrence Cable made Aug 2 at 2024 1:58 PM

2024-08-02T13:58:18-04:00

My father-in-law was a draftee, an ambulance driver. never deployed overseas and was in a period not considered wartime. We go him in touch with an Advocate that got him signed up, got him hearing aids, and provided in home care for him.
Your state should have a department that deals with Vets. This state runs Veterans Homes that are well cared for and usually easier to get into that a Federal facility.

Response by SSG Roger Ayscue made Aug 2 at 2024 6:42 PM

2024-08-02T18:42:16-04:00

Go to the Veterans Service Officer, employed by the county of their residence. They are employed by the County or the state to be your official advocate.

Response by SGT Lorenzo Nieto made Aug 3 at 2024 7:03 AM

2024-08-03T07:03:05-04:00

This person might want to talk to a attorney that knows more about all the benefits he can receive from the va I say this because they wouldn’t lie to.

Response by SGT Robert Urbaniak made Aug 4 at 2024 12:17 PM

2024-08-04T12:17:27-04:00

I would contact the DAV, as they will help you even if your not a member.

Response by Cristina Johnson made Aug 12 at 2024 4:58 AM

2024-08-12T04:58:11-04:00

Hello,

Your friend has the option to request a copy of the DD214 and other military service records from the National Archives, which will provide detailed information such as:
- The character of discharge (based on your DD214 or other separation documents)
- Duty stations and assignments
- Awards and decorations (medals and decorations)
- Qualifications, licenses, and certificates

He can request these records online, by mail, or by fax.
https://vetrecs.archives.gov/VeteranRequest/home.html
The VA government website offers comprehensive information on healthcare benefits, disability, and the application process.
https://www.va.gov/
Additionally, he should explore the PACT Act, which expands healthcare and benefits for veterans exposed to toxic substances during military service, including those who served in Vietnam and were exposed to Agent Orange. It's worth noting that Parkinson's is listed as an illness potentially caused by Agent Orange exposure.
https://www.va.gov/disability/eligibility/hazardous-materials-exposure/agent-orange/

As a veteran with a history of toxic exposure, who is currently dealing with Parkinson's, he might consider reaching out to an environmental litigation group to inquire about eligibility for filing a claim and seeking compensation.
I hope this information is helpful and can assist in some way.

NARA | e-Vetrecs .

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 16 at 2024 2:44 AM

2024-10-16T02:44:28-04:00

If VA is no help contact DAV

Response by SGT Lorenzo Nieto made Oct 16 at 2024 7:11 AM

2024-10-16T07:11:00-04:00

The problem is trying to get the benefits you are qualified for it’s as if you have to be half dead to get them