New AARP Resource Connects Veterans to Adapted Housing Grants
More than half (60%) of veterans ages 45 and older are unaware the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs offers grant funding to modify their homes, according to a new AARP survey. Nearly a quarter (24%) of veterans need financial assistance to make home modifications to continue living in their homes safely and independently.
Key takeaways from the AARP survey include:
- A majority (91%) of veterans 45+ say it is important for them to stay in their homes if they need long-term care.
- Over 3 in 4 (77%) veterans ages 45+ surveyed are not familiar with the VA’s adaptive housing grants for disabled veterans.
- Nearly half (46%) of veterans ages 45+ need bathroom modifications to age in place or provide care for a loved one at home.
- Veteran caregivers ages 45+ report an even higher need for bathroom modifications (55%) to continue providing care.
In response to survey findings, AARP has launched the Veterans Home Modification Benefits Guide to help veterans and service members navigate the VA’s $150 million in funding to buy, build or modify a home to meet their long-term needs. These grants can provide eligible veterans with up to $117,000 to pay for renovations, such as adding grab bars in bathrooms, installing ramps or widening doorways to accommodate a wheelchair or walker.
The guide provides veterans, military families and their caregivers with detailed information on:
- Eligibility requirements and how to apply for the VA’s home modification grants and related programs.
- How to identify necessary home modifications to meet current and future care needs.
- How to get help from certified veterans’ representatives who are experienced and knowledgeable of the VA’s benefit process.
