Supporting Blind Veterans: A Guide to Services and Benefits
DAV is committed to serving those who have sacrificed for our country. This mission extends to ensuring veterans who are legally blind receive the care, resources and support they deserve.
This guide explores various resources for blind veterans; aspects of and technology specifically designed for blindness and low vision; and eligibility for benefits and compensation through the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Understanding blindness and limited vision
Blindness and limited vision significantly affect daily life. It’s vital to understand the different types of visual limitations in addition to the available assistive technologies to provide the best support and quality of life for those who live with these conditions.
Causes of blindness and limited vision include genetic conditions, disease or illness, toxic exposures, accidents and injuries. While there are various types of visual limitations, all fall into the following categories:
- Partial sight: Individuals with partial sight may struggle with tasks requiring precise visual acuity.
- Low vision: Low vision refers to severe vision reduction, making it difficult to read, recognize faces or perform everyday activities.
- Total blindness: Total blindness is the complete loss of vision, where individuals can’t perceive light or form.
Fortunately, assistive technologies help individuals with blindness and limited vision lead more independent lives.
- Screen readers convert text displayed on a computer screen to audio, enabling blind individuals to access digital content.
- Braille devices convert text into Braille, allowing blind individuals to read through touch.
- Mobility aids are tools such as white canes or guide dogs that assist blind and visually limited individuals safely navigate their surroundings.
Services and programs for blind veterans
Blind veterans face unique challenges, but DAV is dedicated to helping them, their families and their caregivers find the services they need to live fulfilling lives.
Advocacy: Veterans can speak with a DAV benefits advocate to determine if their vision loss is related to service. These benefits experts provide no-cost assistance in filing a claim for VA disability compensation, helping the veteran access earned benefits and health care.
Emotional Support: DAV also recognizes the importance of emotional support and camaraderie, which is why we created a support group specifically for blind veterans. All DAV chapters provide a safe and understanding environment where blind veterans can share their experiences, challenges and triumphs.
Rehabilitation: Some blind and visually-limited veterans may qualify for care at a VA medical center or for admission to a VA blind rehabilitation center. These inpatient programs help veterans adapt to blindness and provide training, skill development and counseling.
DAV and the VA co-present the National Disabled Veterans Golf Clinic and the National Disabled Veterans Winter Sports Clinic each year. These clinics use adaptive sports to help veterans experiencing blindness or low vision regain their confidence and adapt to new circumstances.
Careers: DAV also offers education, employment and entrepreneurial opportunities to blind veterans through our employment program. The DAV employment program provides access to vocational resources that enable blind veterans to pursue fulfilling careers.
Benefits and compensation for blind veterans
While there are various VA benefits for blind veterans, including health care, assistive devices, compensation and training, the process of obtaining these benefits can be complex. At DAV, our team of experts is dedicated to assisting blind veterans as they navigate the VA process and receive the resources they’ve earned.
Some key benefits blind veterans can access include:
Disability compensation for visual limitations: Blind vets may be eligible for disability compensation through the VA. This compensation provides financial support to veterans with service-connected blindness or limited vision. The amount of compensation depends on the severity of the condition and its effect on the veteran’s ability to work and perform daily activities.
Health care coverage and assistive devices: Blind veterans are entitled to comprehensive health care coverage through the VA. This includes access to specialized vision care, such as eye exams, low-vision aids and assistive devices. The VA ensures blind veterans receive the necessary support to manage their visual limitations and maintain their overall health.
Home modifications and accessibility grants: To enhance the independence and safety of blind veterans, the VA offers home modification programs and accessibility grants. These programs make necessary modifications to veterans’ homes, such as installing ramps, handrails and adaptive equipment. These modifications enable blind veterans to navigate their homes with ease and live comfortably.
Independence and skills improvement: The VA has a number of Blind Rehabilitation Centers to help blind veterans achieve a realistic level of independence in areas including communication, mobility, daily living, manual and visual skills, computer access, and social and recreational activities. Additionally, the VA provides emotional and behavioral adjustments to vision loss through appropriate counseling or group therapy.
Service dog benefits: Veterans enrolled in VA health care may be eligible for a guide/service dog. While the VA does not provide service dogs, it does cover veterinary health care and other benefits in support of guide dogs.
Connect with DAV and determine your VA benefits eligibility.
Additional resources for blind veterans
In addition to the services and benefits provided by DAV and the VA, numerous other resources are available to support blind veterans.
National Federation of the Blind (NFB): The NFB advocates for the rights and interests of blind individuals. They offer resources, support and programs designed to promote independence and opportunities for blind veterans.
American Foundation for the Blind (AFB): The AFB offers information and opportunities for blind individuals, including veterans. Its programs focus on education, employment and independent living, providing valuable support for blind veterans.
Hadley Vision Resources: Hadley offers free distance education courses for blind and visually limited individuals. Courses cover a wide range of topics, from daily living skills to advanced technology training, empowering blind veterans to continue learning and growing.
Guide dog schools: Several guide dog schools across the country provide trained guide dogs to blind individuals, including veterans. These schools offer comprehensive training programs that pair blind veterans with guide dogs, enhancing their mobility and independence.
We believe in the power of community and collaboration. By connecting blind veterans with these additional resources and support networks, we can create a comprehensive support system that addresses their unique needs and helps them thrive.
How to apply for benefits and access services
Navigating the process of applying for benefits and accessing services can be challenging, but we’re here to help. Here are some steps to get started:
- Gather documentation: Collect documentation, including medical records, service records and any other relevant information that supports your claim for benefits.
- Contact DAV: Reach out to DAV for assistance with the application process. Our experienced team can guide you through the necessary steps and help you gather the required documentation.
- Submit your claim: We can help you complete and submit your application for benefits through the VA. Ensure all required information is included to avoid delays in processing.
- Attend medical examinations: You may be required to attend medical examinations to assess the extent of your visual limitation. These examinations help determine your eligibility for benefits and the level of compensation you may receive.
- Follow up: Stay in touch with the VA and DAV to track the progress of your application. If additional information is needed, provide it promptly to avoid delays.
- Appeal, if necessary: If your application is denied, you have the right to appeal the decision. DAV can assist you with the appeals process and help you present a strong case for reconsideration.
DAV is committed to supporting blind and visually limited veterans and ensuring they receive the benefits and services they deserve. We are here to provide guidance, answer questions and offer assistance every step of the way.
