Serving and Supporting Our Veterans

Serving and Supporting Our Veterans and Their Families

AARP is on a mission to support our Veterans, Military Service members and their families. Some six million AARP members have served our country. Now it’s time for AARP to serve them and the more than 31,000 veterans in the District of Columbia.

According to AARP District of Columbia State President, Ronald E. Hampton, “It is so important that District veterans and their families know about and receive the benefits they have earned.” Hampton is a volunteer with AARP DC and a Vietnam Era veteran.  

While working with those who have worn our nation’s uniform, we’ve developed a deeper understanding of the unique challenges they face. In response, we’ve created free resources, tools and community programs to help them meet their challenges head-on.

While 3 out of 5 veterans use the VA Healthcare system for their healthcare, assistance with their everyday needs fall squarely on the shoulders of a caregiver. There are 5.5 million veteran caregivers providing $14 billion annually in unpaid care to those who served and sacrificed for our nation. 

AARP Veterans & Military Families Health Benefits Navigator AARP has created a FREE one-stop-resource for Veterans and Military Families to ask the right questions and get basic information on health care benefits. The Veterans Health Benefits Navigator has detailed health care information from U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), Military Tricare, Medicare and even private insurance. This free online tool will help you:

• Learn more about health benefits provided through VA and DoD.
• Understand how to apply and enroll in VA health care.
• Expand your health care options with Medicare and Medicaid.
• Identify how to get help from representatives who have experience and knowledge of the VA’s benefits process. Visit: aarp.org/VetsHealthNavigator

Upcoming Series of Conversations on Veterans Benefits
AARP DC is hosting a series for Veterans and their Spouses. All events are free and open to the public. Learn more and register via: aarp.org/dc.

Conversation about Burial Benefits with
VA Decedent Affairs and VA National Cemetery Administration

April 20, 2022 at 10:00am - 11:30am
Registration Now Open: RSVP Here

A Conversation about Survivor's Benefits with
Virginia Department of Veterans Services

May 18, 2022 at 3:00pm - 4:30pm
Registration Now Open: RSVP Here

A Conversation about Fiduciary Services with
VA Fiduciary Hub

June 15, 2022 at 11:00am - 12:30pm
Registration Now Open: RSVP Here

A Conversation about Signs of Cognitive Decline with
DC VA Geriatric Psychiatry Team

June 15, 2022 at 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Registration Now Open: RSVP Here

More Tips for Obtaining VA Health Care Benefits

• First, understand what the VA can provide you by getting advice from those who best know its system. That means reaching out to an accredited Veterans Service Representative. Reach out to your state VA office or veterans and military service organization for help. VA benefits are based on your individual situation, and eligibility can change over time.

• Have a copy of your military service record, known as a DD-214. The easiest way to receive a copy is to register for an eBenefits account. If you don't want to register online, visit your local VA facility, your state or county veterans office, or a veterans service organization such as the American Legion, VFW (Veterans of Foreign Wars), or DAV (Disabled American Veterans).

• Once you apply, the VA can provide an eligibility determination based on their criteria. Since the criteria change, the VA needs your information to identify which services you qualify for that address your specific needs.

AARP salutes those who have served and still serve. We support our veterans and their families with information on career support, caregiving resources, community connections and more. For more information on AARP’s resources and up to 30% Member Discount for Veterans and their Spouses, visit aarp.org/veterans.