Resources for Military Veterans

Military veterans, regardless of the branch of service, regardless of the era in which they served, and regardless of whether they served during a time of peace or a time of war, are at a greater risk of dying from ALS than if they had not served in the military.

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has recognized ALS as a service-connected disease, which means that the VA provides financial and medical support to veterans who have completed at least 90 continuous days of active duty and been honorably discharged. If you qualify for these benefits, they can provide significant assistance in obtaining medical care, assistive devices, and financial support.

Presumptive Services Connection

The VA presumes that specific disabilities diagnosed in certain veterans were caused by their military service. People living with ALS that meet eligibility criteria may be eligible for 100% service-connected rating through the Veterans Administration.

Eligibility requirements include that the Veteran must have served served at least 90 continuous days of active-duty service, must have been honorably discharged, and must have a confirmed diagnosis of ALS made by a qualified healthcare professional. We highly recommend speaking with a Veteran Service Organization to see if you qualify or for questions about eligibility.

Some of the benefits that Veterans living with ALS may qualify for include:

Compensation: The VA provides disability compensation to veterans with ALS. This compensation is designed to provide financial support to veterans who can no longer work due to the disease.

Healthcare Services: Veterans with ALS may receive healthcare services through the VA, including medical care, prescription drugs, and assistive devices to help manage the disease's symptoms. In Georgia, many Veterans living with ALS establish care at the Atlanta VA for Multidisciplinary ALS Care.

Adaptive Equipment: The VA can provide adaptive equipment such as mobility aids, communication devices, and home modifications to improve the quality of life for veterans with ALS.

Home Healthcare Services: Veterans with ALS may be eligible for home healthcare services, which can include nursing care, physical therapy, and speech therapy, depending on individual needs.

Caregiver Support: The VA's Caregiver Support Program offers assistance to family members or friends providing care to veterans with ALS. This includes education, training, and respite care.

Veteran Service Organizations

Many veteran service organizations advocate for veterans' rights and benefits, including those diagnosed with ALS. They work to ensure veterans receive the support they deserve.

For more information about service organizations visit: 

Paralyzed Veterans of America
Contact: Mark Antonitis, National Service Officer II
828-719-9385 | 
marka@pva.org

Disabled American Veterans
1-877-426-2838

Department of Veteran Affairs
1-800-827-1000