Caregiving is a difficult job, no matter the circumstances. And if you’re the primary caregiver for a veteran, there are special considerations.
As with any caregiving situation, you’ll want to get yourself organized. This includes things like writing down doctors’ names, phone numbers, and addresses; prescription numbers, names, and doses; pharmacy contact information; and insurance information. It also means organizing financial documents. Anddon’t forget to photocopy identification documents like the driver’s license and Social Security card, as well as the Veteran’s VA ID Card, and keep these somewhere safe and easily accessible – like your Life At Hand ® Organizer!
In addition to the complexities inherent in any caregiving job, as a veteran’s caregiver you will also be dealing with the VA to access its services and benefits. While this can be an added headache, it also means you have access to a wide range of support services that other caregivers do not. You should visit and bookmark VA Caregiver Support, as this well-organized and user-friendly website contains a wealth of valuable information and resources.
You’ll also want to keep the number to VA’s toll-free Caregiver Support Line handy: 1-855-260-3274. You can call and get help from a licensed professional with just about anything related to veteran caregiving, including
how to access VA’s services and benefits and how to get connected with your nearest Caregiver Support Coordinator at a VA medical center.
The VA Caregiver Support website also provides printable resources to help you stay organized, including checklists and a comprehensive medication log, where you can keep track of all information related to your loved one’s prescriptions.
There are even printable Diagnosis Care Sheets available about Alzheimer’s, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, and Traumatic Brain Injury. These valuable documents detail the disease’s definition and symptoms as well as specific caregiving tips.
Even if you’re not caregiving a veteran, this website offers many tools and resources valuable for all caregivers.