Let’s cut right to it—does age matter in the VA claims process? If you’re an older veteran wondering whether your age has an impact on how the VA looks at your claim, you’re not alone. I’ve worked with thousands of vets from every walk of life, and I can tell you this: age does influence how your claim is processed, but not always in the way you might think.
Let’s break this down.
The VA Doesn’t “Officially” Rate You Based on Age
First things first: the VA’s disability rating system is based on how your service-connected condition affects your ability to function, not your age. So if you’re 30 or 70, and you’ve got the same diagnosis and the same symptoms, the rating should be the same.
But here’s the catch—the way your symptoms are viewed and interpreted can shift as you age, and that’s where things start to matter.
Why Older Veterans Might Actually Have an Advantage
Many veterans are surprised to hear this, but being older can sometimes help your claim. Here’s how:
1. Conditions Worsen With Time
Some conditions that started mildly while you were in service get worse as you age—arthritis, hearing loss, diabetes complications, PTSD, etc. If you were previously rated at 10% for a knee condition, but now it severely limits your mobility, you could be eligible for an increased rating.
2. Presumptive Conditions
The VA has what’s called presumptive conditions—especially for vets who served in Vietnam, the Gulf War, or other specific areas. Many of these conditions (like certain cancers or heart disease) show up decades later, so if you’re older and symptoms are now emerging, this can support your claim.
The VA Does Prioritize Older Veterans
Here’s one of the most important things you should know:
If you’re age 85 or older, or suffering from a terminal illness, the VA can flag your claim for expedited processing.
If that’s you, or you’re getting close to that age bracket, make sure you (or your representative) request that expedited review. It can shave months off your waiting time.
Also, veterans who are financially vulnerable or homeless, regardless of age, can also receive priority—but older age helps move you up the list.
Tips for Filing as an Elderly Veteran
Here are a few things I recommend if you’re older and planning to file or re-file a VA claim:
✅ Get a Current Medical Exam
Even if you were rated years ago, the VA needs current documentation. Your condition may have worsened or spread to affect other parts of your body. Don’t assume your old C&P exam still holds up.
✅ Be Thorough with Secondary Conditions
Older veterans often have secondary conditions—issues caused by your service-connected disability. For example, if you have service-connected diabetes, and now have neuropathy or kidney problems, those could be claimed as secondary disabilities.
✅ Use a Representative Who Understands Aging Claims
Not every VSO or claims agent understands how to present your claim in the right context. You want someone who knows how to tie in aging-related degeneration, presumptive conditions, and long-term disability impacts. That’s what we do here at Gumps VA Compensation.
Common Conditions That Get Worse with Age
If you’re an older vet, pay attention to these common issues:
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Hearing Loss & Tinnitus
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Degenerative Arthritis / Joint Pain
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Sleep Apnea
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Diabetes-related Complications
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Hypertension / Heart Conditions
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Prostate Cancer (especially Vietnam vets)
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PTSD / Anxiety Disorders
Many of these become more severe with age. If you’ve never filed or it’s been years, you may be missing out on compensation you’ve rightfully earned.
What If I Filed a Claim Years Ago and Was Denied?
Here’s what I always tell my older clients: It’s never too late.
If your condition has worsened, or you’ve developed a secondary condition related to a service-connected disability, or you now qualify for a presumptive condition—you can reopen your claim. We’ve helped vets in their 60s, 70s, and 80s get the benefits they were originally denied.
Final Thoughts: You Served. You Deserve.
Look, age shouldn’t be a barrier—it should be a reason to revisit your claim. You’ve lived with these conditions longer than most. You’ve managed pain, setbacks, and limitations for decades. You earned this.
At Gumps VA Compensation, we specialize in making sure older veterans are treated fairly in the claims process. If you’re not sure where to start—or you’ve been frustrated by the system—reach out.
Because your age isn’t a problem—it’s a reason to act.
Need Help with Your VA Claim?
Visit GumpsLegal.com and let’s make sure your voice is heard—loud and clear.