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Helping South Dakota Veterans Thrive at Every Stage of Life

Resources, guidance, and support for South Dakota veterans and military families.

AARP

Published July 14, 2026

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Every day, veterans, service members, and military families make sacrifices in service to our country.

That is why AARP works in local communities to honor and support veterans, service members and military families through meaningful programs, services and initiatives.

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South Dakota’s Veteran Community

More than 58,500 veterans call South Dakota home, and nearly three-quarters are age 50 or older. According to AARP data:

26% of South Dakota veterans have a service-related disability.
3% are without health insurance.
47% have used the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs for health care.

AARP South Dakota stands alongside veterans and their families, helping protect their health, financial security, independence, and connections to their communities.

“The courage and dedication of veterans and military families strengthen communities across the country,” said Erik Gaikowski, AARP South Dakota State Director. “We are committed to recognizing their contributions and provide meaningful support that helps them navigate life’s transitions with intention and purpose.”

What Veterans Need Most

A recent AARP survey found that veterans identified several key areas where support is needed, including:

Caregiving resources
Fraud prevention and scam protection
Access to benefits and services
Employment and career assistance

To help meet these needs, AARP has developed resources designed to support veterans, service members, and military families throughout their lives—from active service to retirement and beyond.

Resources for Veterans and Military Families

Veteran Volunteer Opportunities: Veterans bring valuable leadership, experience and passion for service. As an AARP volunteer, you share free resources with friends and neighbors, staff tables at community events, and facilitate presentations and workshops. Learn more: AARP South Dakota Volunteer Interest Form
Protecting Veterans from Fraud: Veterans, active-duty service members, and their families are nearly 40% more likely to lose money to scams and fraud than civilians.
Stay informed: Veterans Fraud Center
Support for Veteran and Military Family Caregivers: Each caregiving journey is unique, and caring for a veteran or service member is a great honor. We’re here to help make your experience easier with our Caregiving Guide for Veterans, Service Members and their Families: Military Caregiving Guide
Helping You Navigate Work and Jobs: For veterans, transitioning into a career can be a difficult process. The veteran community can overcome unemployment, and the first step can be navigating the AARP Job Center.
Support through our Health Benefits Navigator: Navigating veterans’ health benefits can be complicated. AARP’s Health Benefits Navigator helps veterans and their families learn about available benefits, eligibility requirements, and how to access free support from certified representatives. How Do You Navigate VA Health Care Benefits?

Stay Connected!

If you’re looking for more information about our community relationships, or want to discover additional resources, be sure to visit our website regularly and follow AARP South Dakota on:

Facebook: @aarpsouthdakota
X: @AARPSD

You can also join the national conversation honoring veterans by following #AARPSalutesVets.

Additional resources are available through our helpful Veterans, Active Duty, and Military Families Guides.

You Fought for Us, Now We’re Fighting for You!

AARP South Dakota advocates for issues important to veterans, military families and all South Dakotans. As part of our advocacy network, you can stay informed and help champion policies that strengthen communities across the state.

Join our advocacy network by signing up for emails and becoming a mobile advocate by texting JOINSD to 22777.

Together, we can ensure that every veteran has access to the support, resources, and community they deserve.

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