As a caregiver for a Veteran, you know firsthand the challenges and sacrifices that come with managing health and well-being. Your daily responsibilities are often physically, mentally and emotionally demanding. The journey isn’t always easy and there are moments when it can feel overwhelming. But know this: You are not alone. VA is your partner in care.
You and the Veteran you care for are part of a team
The key to better health outcomes for Veterans is to ensure that both you and the Veteran you care for are part of the care team. Together, you bring valuable insights that can make all the difference in improving the quality of life for everyone involved.
How to get the most out of health care appointments
As a caregiver, you play a critical role in the success of your Veteran’s care. Here are some tips to help you get the most out of health care appointments.
- Prepare in advance: Before each appointment, review the details and list any concerns or changes in the Veteran’s health. Include a list of current medications, dosages and supplements to ensure that nothing is overlooked.
- Encourage self-advocacy: Support your Veteran in speaking up and being engaged during appointments. The more involved they are, the better their health outcomes will be.
- Share observations when needed: Your perspective is invaluable. Share any physical, emotional or behavioral changes you’ve noticed at home that might be relevant to their care.
- Be clear and concise: When providing information, keep it focused and to the point. Highlight the key issues so the health care provider can get a complete picture of the Veteran’s needs without feeling overwhelmed.
- Take notes: It can be easy to forget important details in the moment. Take notes during the appointment and ask for written instructions if needed. This way, you’ll have everything you need to refer back to later.
- Discuss follow-up care: Make sure you understand the next steps. Ask when the next appointment should be and what warning signs to watch for. This can help you provide better care at home.
- Use resources: Don’t hesitate to ask about additional resources, such as referrals to specialists, therapists or social workers that could support both the Veteran and you in your role as caregiver.
Whether you’re looking for emotional support or practical guidance, VA is dedicated to ensuring you have the tools you need to thrive in your caregiving role. As a caregiver, you are a vital part of this journey, and we’re here to walk alongside you every step of the way.
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I commend the VA for the many efforts made to align the medical service the Veteran receives with the Doctor and support it with the service he receives at home. It has made an amazing difference being able to keep my Korean War husband comfortable at home with me. The assistance we receive is just enough to maintain a safe and workable schedule to live comfortable life at home. Thank you.
My wife always goes with me to the local Air Force base, sometimes she has to drive me when my injury is flared up and I can barely walk. I was recently informed that I could no longer get her a base pass and in order to do so I need a letter from the VA stating that she’s my caregiver. How do I go about obtaining this letter?
Ask your primary care or the social worker attached to your pact team, they should be able to supply this letter. Also, you can have an advanced directive put in place right there at the VA and they will keep it on file. Be sure to keep all copies as well. Finally , you can have your wife apply to the caregiver program, this will give her access to your doctors, appointments and many other services and resources. She may even get paid to be your caregiver depending on your disability rating. Good luck!
VA is a life saver! My husband has Parkinson’s and needs a lot of help for voice, mobility and more. I’m so grateful to the VA.
The caregiver program is total bs. My wife gave up her practice to take care of me. I can’t go anywhere without her (safety reasons). But the VA only cared if I could wipe my butt and feed myself.
They have changed these requirements. Have her try again.
Thank You for that. I have never had a bad thing to say about Veterans care and seriously appreciate the concern and mail-outs.
You’re doing a great job under difficult situations, and my heart goes out to you all!