Fact Sheets

Veterans and Parkinson’s

More than 110,000 veterans with Parkinson’s disease (PD) receive care through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). The Parkinson’s Foundation is here to help veterans and their loved ones live well with PD. To find resources tailored to the veteran community, visit Parkinson.org/Veterans or call the Parkinson’s Foundation Helpline at 1-800-4PD-INFO (1-800-473-4636).

Medical Care and Treatment

Many U.S. military veterans with Parkinson’s have access to specialized medical care and financial assistance through the VA. The VA treats veterans with Parkinson’s through medical centers known as Parkinson’s Disease Research, Education & Clinical Centers (PADRECCs). Visit www.parkinsons.va.gov or call 1-800-949-1001 x205769 to learn more about how to access care through the PADRECCs and their Associated Sites. To apply for VA healthcare, visit www.va.gov/health-care/how-to-apply or call 1-877-222-8387.

Agent Orange and Toxic Exposures

In some cases, a Parkinson’s diagnosis can be linked to Agent Orange or other toxin exposure from a veteran’s military service. Agent Orange was a powerful herbicide used in Vietnam from 1962 to 1975, but was also used and stored in other locations. Veterans may be eligible for a free environmental health registry evaluation, disability compensation and other VA benefits. To learn more, visit Parkinson.org/Veterans or call the Veteran Benefits Administration at 1-800-827-1000.

Veterans Benefits

Veterans living with Parkinson’s may qualify for financial benefit programs to help cope with financial challenges. Service members, veterans and families can apply for various VA benefits by:

  • Applying online at www.eBenefits.va.gov.
  • Working with an accredited representative or VSO. Federal law prohibits attorneys and others from charging a fee to assist with the VA application.
  • Calling the VA’s toll-free hotline at 1-800-827-1000, Monday-Friday 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. ET.

Caring for a Veteran with Parkinson’s

The care partner experience is unique to every individual. The Parkinson’s Foundation and VA have resources specially designed for those caring for a veteran with Parkinson’s. Regardless of whether you are early in the journey, caring from afar or supporting a loved one in the advanced stages of Parkinson’s, we have the resources to help. Learn more at Parkinson.org/Veterans.

Hospital Safety

Every person living with Parkinson’s should be prepared for a possible hospitalization including veterans and their care partners. Visit Parkinson.org/HospitalSafety to learn more and order or download your Hospital Safety Guide.

Mental Health

Mental health concerns like depression and anxiety are common in people with PD. They can be the result of living with a chronic condition, but they can also be a symptom of the disease itself and changes in the brain. Be aware of these symptoms and do not hesitate to talk to your doctor. Keep the Veterans Crisis Line number nearby, just in case: dial 988, then press 1 or text 838255.

Back to Top