Illnesses and injuries related to military service can contribute to progressive neurological conditions such as dementia and Alzheimer’s disease in veterans. Vets may qualify for VA disability benefits.
Summary
- Approximately 500,000 American veterans are affected by dementia, mainly Alzheimer’s disease, a figure expected to rise. Veterans face a higher risk if they also suffer from PTSD, TBIs, or Agent Orange exposure.
- Dementia symptoms include memory loss, impaired communication, and behavioral changes. Risk factors for veterans include genetic components, hypertension, PTSD, and TBIs.
- Veterans can seek VA disability benefits if their dementia or Alzheimer’s is linked to their military service.
- Applying for VA disability benefits involves submitting a claim, undergoing a compensation and pension exam, and providing supporting evidence. If denied, veterans can appeal with the assistance of VA-accredited lawyers like the team at Bartlett Legal Group.
As Vietnam veterans age, many face the debilitating effects of service-connected cognitive impairments, often stemming from their exposure to various harmful factors during their service. Around 500,000 American veterans are currently impacted by dementia, predominantly in the form of Alzheimer’s disease, and this figure is projected to increase in the coming years.
Dementia is more prevalent among veterans aged 65 and older. As such, it is important for veterans and their dependents who are pursuing disability benefits for dementia to have a solid grasp of how the VA evaluates and assigns ratings for this cognitive impairment.
At Bartlett Legal Group, our VA-accredited lawyers aim to provide information and guidance to veterans and their families regarding VA disability benefit claims and the appeal process. Our veterans disability claims attorneys can shed light on VA benefits claims for Vietnam veterans suffering from dementia and Alzheimer’s. To schedule a free consultation, call us at (850) 332-6434 or submit this contact form.
What Are Dementia and Alzheimer’s?
Dementia refers to a spectrum of medical conditions characterized by a decline in memory, decision-making, cognitive, and learning abilities. Dementia itself is not a disease per se but rather a broad term encompassing various cognitive impairments.
Alzheimer’s disease, identified by Alois Alzheimer in 1906, stands out as one of the most prevalent types of dementia, accounting for 60% to 80% of all diagnosed cases. This progressive condition leads to the degeneration of nerve cells in the brain, impacting an individual’s memory, thoughts, and language skills.
Common Symptoms of Dementia and Alzheimer’s in Veterans
Dementia is a mental condition characterized by memory challenges, impaired communication and problem-solving skills, and diminished coordination. Initial symptoms of Alzheimer’s may include mild confusion and memory lapses, progressing to the point where individuals may struggle to recognize important individuals in their lives or familiar environments.
Additionally, some individuals may experience significant changes in their personality as the disease advances. While memory loss alone does not equate to dementia, it may serve as an early indicator of potential dementia progression.
Other signs and symptoms of dementia include:
- challenges related to visual perception and spatial awareness,
- difficulties in task execution,
- decreased coordination,
- alterations in behavior patterns,
- mood disturbances like depression and anxiety,
- inappropriate conduct,
- feelings of paranoia,
- bouts of agitation, and
- instances of hallucinations.
These symptoms of dementia can significantly impact daily life, hindering a veteran’s ability to perform routine activities such as speaking, driving, or organizing tasks.
Dementia Risk Among Vietnam Veterans
Some forms of dementia, particularly Alzheimer’s disease, have a strong genetic component. Inherited factors play a significant role in its development. However, other elements, such as inadequate nutrition, hypertension, and traumatic brain injury (TBI), can also contribute to the increased risk of developing Alzheimer’s.
A recent study of cognitive decline in vets has also revealed that conditions like TBI, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, diseases related to obesity, and vascular issues are other common risk factors for developing dementia.
Why Dementia is Prevalent Among Veterans
Due to their military service experiences, veterans are at a heightened risk, being two to five times more susceptible to conditions like PTSD, TBI, or depression compared to non-veterans. This elevated risk increases their vulnerability to developing dementia, potentially impacting their ability to work.
Various military events, including physical conditions such as hypertension induced by military stressors, head injuries sustained during combat or training, instances of reduced blood flow to the brain due to injuries endured in a military context, and malnutrition during service could potentially contribute to the development of Alzheimer’s later in life.
If a military-related incident led to the onset of these conditions and eventually resulted in an Alzheimer’s diagnosis, veterans may qualify for VA disability benefits provided they can prove the connection between their condition and their days in service.
The seasoned VA-accredited lawyers at Bartlett Legal Group can assist in examining military and medical records and representing you in an appeal.
Impact of Traumatic Brain Injury on Dementia
The impacts of traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) on Vietnam veterans are profound, affecting their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Therefore, veterans who have a service-related TBI and subsequently develop dementia or Alzheimer’s may be eligible for VA disability benefits based on their dementia diagnosis.
The link between TBIs and dementia or Alzheimer’s is presumed to exist because TBIs have been linked to an elevated risk of dementia in both veterans and non-veterans. Research highlights that veterans face a heightened susceptibility to TBIs due to the nature of combat, setting them apart from civilians in terms of risk exposure.
According to the Alzheimer’s Association, older adults with moderate TBIs exhibit a 2.3 times higher likelihood of developing Alzheimer’s disease compared to those without a history of TBI.
The Relationship Between Agent Orange and Dementia
The connection between Agent Orange and dementia has been recognized as a potential risk factor for Vietnam veterans.
One study published in the National Library of Medicine indicates that veterans who were exposed to Agent Orange, an herbicide containing dioxin utilized during the Vietnam War, are nearly twice as likely to develop dementia compared to their counterparts who were not exposed to the herbicide.
Although the VA does not currently categorize dementia or Alzheimer’s as presumptive conditions of Agent Orange exposure, it is still possible to gather evidence demonstrating the correlation between the two in order to pursue benefits.
PTSD and Dementia Among Vietnam Veterans
Both civilians and veterans may encounter post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) following a distressing event that poses a threat to their well-being. However, the veteran population faces an increased likelihood of developing PTSD. PTSD can disrupt daily life and impact a veteran’s work performance.
Research indicates that Vietnam veterans with PTSD are more than twice as likely to develop dementia compared to those without this mental health disorder. Seeking appropriate treatment for PTSD can potentially reduce the risk of developing dementia later in life.
Link Between Depression and Alzheimer’s Disease
The transition from military service to civilian life and the reintegration into family and social circles can present significant challenges. It often leaves veterans feeling disconnected from a sense of normalcy. Depression is highly prevalent during the early and middle stages of Alzheimer’s disease.
While depression can serve as a symptom of Alzheimer’s and dementia, it has also been examined as a potential risk factor for the development of dementia. Additionally, veterans with PTSD face an elevated likelihood of developing both dementia and depression as a consequence of their condition.
How the VA Rates Dementia and Alzheimer’s for Disability Claims
If you are displaying symptoms of Alzheimer’s or dementia linked to your military service, you may qualify for VA benefits. The VA assesses all forms of dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease, using the same rating criteria as mental health conditions, applying the General Formula for Mental Disorders.
The VA assigns a disability rating for Alzheimer’s and dementia of 0%, 10%, 30%, 50%, 70%, or 100%, depending on the veteran’s level of impairment.
The rating scale is categorized as:
- 0% Rating: Early stages of the condition, with minimal impact on work and social interactions.
- 10% Rating: Symptoms have minimal impact and are easily managed with medication.
- 30% Rating: Early to moderate stages, marked by symptoms like depression and sleep disturbances.
- 50% Rating: Impaired ability to carry out daily tasks, alongside noticeable mood and behavior alterations.
- 70% Rating: Significant decline in personal care maintenance, accompanied by prominent mood changes.
- 100% Rating: Severe symptoms, such as hallucinations, complete disorientation, and an inability to self-care.
How to Make A VA Disability Claim for Dementia and Alzheimer’s
Applying for VA disability benefits for dementia or Alzheimer’s involves submitting a disability claim to the VA. As part of the application process, you may be required to undergo a Compensation and Pension (C&P) exam. This helps the VA assess your eligibility and determine the appropriate level of compensation.
You will also need to submit supporting evidence connecting your condition and your service in the military. Establishing a direct link between a specific event and an Alzheimer’s diagnosis can be challenging. However, your VA disability claims lawyer can help identify existing evidence within your records to support your claim and effectively challenge any denials.
It is also vital to be truthful and transparent during the C&P examination. Once the VA evaluates your claim, it will make a decision. If the VA approves you for disability benefits, then it will also issue a rating for your claim.
In case you disagree with the decision and believe you deserve a service connection or a higher rating, you can seek the assistance of an experienced VA disability appeals lawyer to help you with the appeal process for your dementia or Alzheimer’s VA claim.
Trust Bartlett Legal Group With Your Dementia and Alzheimer’s VA Disability Claims
Bartlett Legal Group is a team of dedicated VA-accredited attorneys who are passionate about assisting Vietnam veterans. We can help you obtain equitable compensation for their service-related dementia and Alzheimer’s. Our team is committed to providing personalized legal support to navigate the VA disability appeals process.
Don’t hesitate to take action. If you or a loved one is a Vietnam veteran struggling with any form of dementia, contact Bartlett Legal Group. Call us at (850) 332-6434 or submit this contact form to schedule a free consultation. Let us help you secure the VA disability benefits you rightfully deserve.
