As veterans age in Plainfield and Shorewood, many ask: “Can I safely stay in my home while managing a disability, mobility challenge, or chronic health condition, and what support is available to help make that possible?”
For thousands of military veterans, the answer is yes. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers the Homemaker and Home Health Aide (HHA) Program, which helps veterans with chronic medical conditions or disabilities stay safely at home rather than move into a facility.
Authorized caregivers help with essential daily tasks, including bathing, dressing, meal preparation, medication reminders, and mobility support. Yet, despite earning this benefit through service, many local families never access it. Why?
Overcoming the Paperwork Hurdle
The most typical barrier isn’t eligibility—it’s navigation. Families often get discouraged by confusing government forms like VA Form 10-10EZ, or they incorrectly assume their income is too high to qualify. If a veteran is already enrolled in VA healthcare, they may not need to complete that form before asking about home care.
Many don’t realize that non-reimbursed medical expenses, Medicare premiums, and out-of-pocket prescription costs can be legally deducted to reduce countable income below VA thresholds. Furthermore, veterans with a service-connected disability rating often qualify regardless of income. These details can affect whether a veteran meets the benefit’s income requirements.
Managing the System: Key Steps for Families
If you or a loved one are looking to access home care through the VA, take this professional advice to get started right away:
1. Check Your Current VA Status: If you already see a doctor at a VA clinic or receive VA hearing aids, you are already enrolled in VA You do not need to fill out Form 10-10EZ. You can request a Home Health Aide consult directly through your VA primary care team.
2. Fast-Track Appointments Locally: If applying for the first time, request your initial appointment at a local facility, such as the Joliet VA Clinic on Eagle Street, where scheduling typically moves much faster than at major regional medical centers. Always list a family member’s phone number as the primary contact so scheduling calls are never missed.
3. Select Your Preferred Care Provider: Once the VA approves home health aide hours, accredited agencies with in the VA Community Care Network deliver Veterans can request a specific credentialed local home care provider to deliver care in their home.
Remaining at home with dignity while managing a chronic health condition is entirely possible. Take the first step now: learn how to navigate your earned VA benefits and get the support your family deserves.
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