Helping Veterans with In-Home Care
In-home care can play a key role in improving veterans’ quality of life, especially those living with ongoing medical conditions.
With PTSD rates higher than ever and one in four military families caring for a deployed family member at home, it’s more important to ensure that those who have served their country receive the comprehensive home-care services they deserve.
4 ways in-home care services can benefit veterans
Supporting Veterans’ Independence
A poll of people aged 50 and older, conducted by the AARP, revealed that over 76% of older people would like to stay in their home and remain independent and self-sufficient in their community for as long as possible.
Considering that in the U.S. alone, 30% of American men aged 64-74 are veterans, while 44% of veterans are over 74, it’s becoming clear that more alternative care options for them will be needed in the future.
Independent living is a choice of veterans for many reasons, including:
Comfort: Being around familiar objects and belongings provides a sense of comfort for veterans and many would remain in place as they age.
Continuity: Having a home base to return to ensures veterans feel grounded, safe and in control of their environment—this is something many veterans did not see while on duty.
Routine: It may seem like a small thing, but having in-home care and being able to connect with a caregiver can help a Veteran feel grounded and re-orient through routine and stability in their environment.
Benefits for Veterans for In-home Care
Veterans are entitled to access government benefits from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) if they meet certain criteria. An assigned social worker can assess their needs and match them with appropriate home care, or advocate for more care.
In-home Care for Everyday Tasks like shopping and cooking
Providing a nutritious home-cooked meal can make a big difference to a veteran’s overall health and well-being.
Compared to people who haven’t served, research shows that veterans have a higher Body Mass Index (BMI) and are less likely to eat a nutritionally well-rounded diet.
Following a diet that’s low in saturated fats—but high in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, dairy, nuts, and lean sources of protein—has many benefits for veterans:
Better heart health: Eating leafy greens, berries, and omega-rich protein like salmon can lower the risk of heart disease and stroke.
Enhances Mental and Emotional Well Being: Avoiding refined carbohydrates and embracing foods with a lower glycemic load like whole fruit and whole grains keep your mood even and stable.
Manages existing conditions easier: While you should always consult with a doctor about your health needs, limiting processed foods and focusing on a nutritious diet can help manage other health conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure.
Veterans can turn to caregivers for grocery shopping, meal planning, and anything else they require—even dish washing.
In-home caregivers can look at a veteran’s specific dietary needs, food preferences or nutritional requirements and make sure they’re providing well-balanced meals throughout the day.
Adjusting to Civilian Life
Returning to civilian life can be an adjustment for many veterans. All of the places they liked to go, people they used to see, and activities they once enjoyed can feel different and strange after being away and in combat.
In- Home care for veterans help them stay active within their community. Veterans can re-enter their community at their own pace, and with someone who understands their situation.
In addition to helping veterans rebuild confidence, in-home caregivers can help with the practical necessities of daily life.
From driving to doctor’s appointments, or a grocery store that’s out of walking range, caregivers will make sure veterans have their social and transportation needs met.
Supporting Veterans’ Medical Needs
It is not a surprise that veterans may need quality medical care after being in the line of duty.
What happens when veterans who have behavioral, medical, or cognitive challenges that affect their ability to function independently at home?
What happens if veterans prefer to stay at home instead of moving to a more specialized medical facility?
Home care services can help gaps for veterans adjusting to civilian life after their service. A qualified in-home care nurse can provide veterans with continuous care, monitor health symptoms, and make sure they’re as comfortable as possible in their environment.
Caregivers are trained to help veterans with a number of things, including basic care needs like taking medicines, eating meals, and hygiene. In-home caregivers can also support more complex care needs such as managing PTSD symptoms and pain management.
Conclusion
If you have a Veteran in your family who needs care, contact us for a consultation. Our caregivers can help facilitate this process by assisting with these calls and encouraging these activities.