If a blind veteran goes to the VA, are they eligible for Veterans Assistance without being service-connected?

A blind veteran may be eligible for Veterans Assistance even if they are not service-connected because there are programs designed to assist veterans with visual impairments or blindness, regardless of the cause of their condition. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) provides resources and support for veterans through various non-service-connected disability programs and benefits, including the VA’s Blind Rehabilitation Service.

These programs aim to enhance the quality of life for blind veterans by providing training and resources to help them adapt and manage their condition effectively. This support is available to all veterans who meet the eligibility criteria for such programs, not strictly limited to those whose blindness is a direct result of their military service. Therefore, the eligibility is not contingent upon being service-connected, which reinforces the understanding that the VA seeks to support veterans facing significant challenges, including those related to blindness, regardless of the circumstances under which such conditions occurred.