Pensioners may qualify for services under Veterans Affairs Canada‘s Veterans Independence Program (VIP) if they are in frail health that puts their well-being at risk.

To qualify for VIP services as a frail pensioner, you must have ONE of the following conditions, all or most (85%) of the time:

 Even though you do not stutter, you find it hard to speak and be understood in a quiet place, even with medication or aids.

 You need life sustaining therapy such as oxygen to stay alive.

 You cannot feed yourself 

 You cannot hear other talk in a quiet place even with medication or aids. 

 You cannot dress or wash yourself. 

 You cannot control your bowels or bladder.

 You cannot walk 164 feet on level ground (that‘s about the length of 8 parked cars), with medication or aids.

 You are not able to think, remember, or be aware of things, even with medication or aids. 

You must have TWO or more of the following conditions:

 You have vision problems and need the services of CNIB (Canadian National Institute for the Blind).

 You have little or no use of your arms and hands, or you have little or no use of your legs and knees, and this makes it hard for you to walk or keep your balance.

 You have heart and lung problems that make it difficult for you to do any physical activity.

 You need regular supervision or help because of severe dementia or depression. 

 You take two or more types of drugs that impair your physical or mental well-being.

Before you can qualify for VIP as a frail pensioner, a Departmental Medical Officer or Health Care Team must determine that you meet the criteria of a frail individual. We also must review your situation to identify any health needs that exist. This is called an assessment.

Remember you have to apply for any assistance it will not come to you. If you need help call me at 519-735-5843.

Vic Newey

Service Officer