Don't Miss Veterans' Home Care Benefit

Veterans and their spouses are encouraged to investigate whether they qualify for the "Aid and Attendance" program, a VA benefit for those who are aged 65 or over and have served at least "90 days and one day" during wartime. The service could have been overseas or at home.

VA benefits are not automatically given; they must be applied for, and recipients must meet certain requirements. Veterans with spouses could receive over $23,000 annually toward in-home care, assisted living or nursing home care. Spouses of deceased veterans may be eligible for over $12,000 annually.
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Dear Kate - My mother has a caregiver who comes several times a week. But I don't think they get along very well, even though Mom hasn't complained to me about anything specific. What do you advise about this? D.R., Pleasant Hill

Dear D.R. - First, discuss your concerns with your mother. If she is interested in interviewing alternative caregivers, your agency should be able to immediately arrange for her to meet and try out others. Personality conflicts can happen in any situation.

Dear Kate - One of my uncles is almost 80 and lives alone, and appears to be doing ok. I try to drop by and visit him as often as possible. What should I be watching for that would indicate that he needs some in-home care? T.F., Oakland

Dear T.F. - This is a question I often hear from families. Everyone ages at a different rate and many people can remain independent well into their 80s. Some things to look for when visiting your uncle include: Is his house tidy? Does he have adequate groceries (not just frozen dinners)? Have you noticed any weight loss? Has his personal hygiene declined? Are there any concerns with his memory? These are just a few things to consider. A great resource is his primary care physician. Often PCPs will be the ones to initiate the idea that some help might be needed in the home.

(Submit your questions to kdougherty@professionalhc.com)

Top 10 Reasons for Home Care

   1. Home care helps elders remain independent.
   2. Home care keeps families together.
   3. Home care promotes healing.
   4. Home care reduces stress.
   5. Home care is the most effective form of health care.
   6. Home care is the most efficient form of health care.
   7. Home care improves the quality of life.
   8. Home care is less expensive than other forms of care.
   9. Home care extends life.
 10. Home care is the preferred form of care.

 

March 2009

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