NATION’S HIDDEN HEROS l

Caregiver support for our nation’s Hidden Heroes

If you’re one of the country’s more than 5.5 million Hidden Heroes—family members caring for veterans and members of our military—you know that caregiving is a full-time job. It’s probably one of the most challenging—and rewarding—roles you’ll ever have.

Whether you’re a military spouse caring for an injured service member, an adult child or sibling caring for a veteran parent or loved one, or a spouse caring for a veteran, you don’t have to do it alone. Support is available. And finding that support—for both you and your loved one—is vital so you can provide the care your loved one needs.

Take the initiative developing a strong support system for you and your loved one. Here’s where to start:

LOOK INTO COMMUNITY RESOURCES

There are a number of service organizations that offer support and aid to service members, veterans, their families and caregivers. Contact your local VA office or Agency on Aging for more information about resources in your community. In addition, HiddenHeroes.org provides a directory of hundreds of resources for military family caregivers.

CONTACT THE VA CAREGIVER SUPPORT PROGRAM (CSP)

The CSP offers clinical services to caregivers of eligible and covered veterans enrolled in the VA health care system. They also provide educational resources and support. There is a CSP Team Locator located at every VA location.

ENLIST HELP FROM FAMILY AND FRIENDS

Expand your support network by reaching out to friends, family, neighbors and other military families who understand what you’re experiencing. Don’t hesitate to ask for help. Oftentimes friends and family want to help but don’t know how and appreciate being asked. Go to caregiver.va.gov for more information.

CONSIDER RESPITE CARE

Respite care provides short-term relief for the caregiver, giving a much-needed break. This can help ease caregiver stress, allowing you time to refresh and recharge.

HIRE A PROFESSIONAL CAREGIVER

In addition to providing assistance with daily activities, a professional caregiver can help with light housekeeping, errands and transportation, provide memory care and recovery support for illness, stroke or surgery. In many cases, veterans are eligible for benefits that help cover the expense of home care services.

Remember that members of the military are used to helping others and putting others’ needs ahead of their own, and it can be hard to be on the receiving end of service. At SYNERGY HomeCare, we understand that asking for help can be difficult, but it’s not a sign of weakness. We take pride in offering flexible respite care to military caregivers and adapting to each unique situation. Are You a Military Caregiver?

You may be a military caregiver if you do any of the following for a service member or veteran:

• Manage medication and medical appointments

• Provide emotional and physical support

• Assist in the care of a disabling wound, injury or illness

• Advocate for proper treatment and care

Source: HiddenHeroes.org