Help is available if you know how to access it

As a veteran myself, I have always valued and appreciated the men and women who have honorably served our country. Currently, 33 percent of all senior veterans in the U.S. are entitled to Aid and Attendance, a multi-billion dollar pension program in place at the Veterans Administration that provides financial assistance for medical care to veterans and their surviving spouses. Sadly, only an estimated 5 percent of those eligible are actually receiving benefits from this program.

I am acutely aware that the current economic crisis and skyrocketing long-term care costs are crippling families in need of financial assistance. In this tough economic climate with funding for seniors being slashed nationwide, this pension program can be life-saving for countless families.

By the year 2010, there will be an estimated 10 million or more veterans and their surviving spouses living in the U.S. The Aid and Attendance program, established in 1952, was created for veterans and their surviving spouses who are disabled or unable to work due to chronic illness or physical limitations. The funding is also available for long-term care. Eligible applicants can receive up to $1,948 per month or $23,376 per year.

With the rising cost of medical care, I know how badly many veterans and their spouses need this funding. I speak at senior centers and at assisted living communities throughout the country. Veterans and their families are always amazed that there is a program that can really help.

Some common questions and answers on the Aid and Attendance program include:

What if the veteran or surviving spouse cannot locate their discharge papers? There are ways a veteran