Nelson backs resolution to provide care for retired servicemembers

Some much-needed help may be available for aging and ailing local veterans and their caregivers. Congress is considering legislation to cover 100-percent of the costs of caregiving for retired service members.  Senator Telena Nelson sponsored a resolution that expresses Guam's strong support for the federal measure. Local Veterans Affairs Health Services Section head Lucy Perez testified at a hearing last night that the caregivers program will require online applications.

"And then once they meet that eligibility and they’re approved, then their primary caregiver, whoever’s stated on the account, will be the individual that will be getting a stipend. And again its all provided if they meet the eligibility standards. So that funding is taken care of by the federal side, what the guam office will do is we’re like that bridge to connect the veterans, to help them or their family fill out that application," she explained.

The applications will be submitted through the U.S. Veteran's affairs website, VA.gov. Currently the caregivers program only covers about 65-percent of the costs.