Serving in the military can be an incredibly demanding and risky experience, posing many health challenges in the lives of veterans. As per the National Association of American Veterans, nearly 16.5 million veterans reside in the US as of 2021. Out of these, around 11.9 million suffer from disabilities due to their service in the military. Similarly, around 2.1 million suffer from mental health issues such as PTSD, depression, or substance abuse.
It places the burden of primary veteran care on their loved ones, who face challenges in providing the support and the right resources veterans need. Therefore, families and caregivers must understand various ways of caring for their veteran loved ones.
In this article, we will explore some of the most effective strategies and provide insights for veteran caregivers into caring for veterans.
Get the Right Medical Care
Getting your veteran loved one the right medical care after quitting the services is imperative. Veterans can expose themselves to asbestos, a naturally occurring fibrous silicate mineral, during service. It is present in construction materials and navy ships, etc., and can lead to some medical conditions like mesothelioma, which may not be obvious years after quitting the military. You can contact these Dallas asbestos lawyers to help assist you in the battle for justice on this disease. They will fight to make sure you get the fair compensation you’re entitled to.
If your veteran loved one demonstrates symptoms such as difficulty breathing, general fatigue, or constant coughing, you must immediately contact veteran healthcare professionals. You can find the relevant resources and guides by visiting www.mesotheliomahope.com and learning how to deal with the condition if you receive such a diagnosis of your veteran loved one. You will find various treatment options and healthcare centers dedicated to mesothelioma patients with guidance on receiving financial aid for the treatment.
You can also explore mental healthcare options for veterans with PTSD, depression, or anxiety. It is possible and common for veterans to develop certain mental health issues, and it is equally important to address them. Veterans also need emotional and mental healthcare and support groups to help them adjust to civilian life. Therefore, getting the right medical help is crucial for their overall health.
Provide Emotional Support
Emotional support is a primary element of caring for your veteran loved ones. A support system can significantly boost a veteran’s mental and emotional health. It is important to listen and be non-judgmental towards veterans. Praising, providing encouragement, and words of affirmation can boost their self-confidence. Encouraging veterans to socialize is equally important, especially if they appear withdrawn and isolated.
Being surrounded by friends and family provides a support system that helps them overcome the challenges of shifting from military to civilian life. Make sure you participate in veteran events and activities organized by the Department of Veterans Affairs for veterans and their families. They help provide the necessary support, guidance, and resources available for veterans to take advantage of. Moreover, you must remain observant and vigilant toward their changing behaviors and seek professional help if necessary.
Offer Financial Support
Although veterans can get financial support, insurance, housing, and employment opportunities from the Department of Veteran Affairs, there is a certain eligibility criterion. Shifting from military to civilian life can present financial barriers, and it can be hard to get work immediately.
As per the National Veterans Foundation report, veterans are more likely to experience homelessness and unemployment due to financial troubles than the general population. It becomes especially hard for them to support themselves financially with a major injury sustained during service.
Therefore, your veteran loved ones will require financial assistance, such as paying bills, managing debts, and creating a budget. Moreover, you can also help them apply for government benefits such as disability compensation or healthcare to alleviate their financial burden. Similarly, you can also find community resources such as affordable housing, food banks, and financial counseling. Providing initial financial support will help veterans settle into their new life and get back on their feet.
Engage in Physical Activities
Physical activities are very crucial for veterans’ physical and mental well-being. It becomes especially important if they sustained a serious injury or a disability. It can become harder for them to motivate themselves to become active. A better way to encourage physical activities for veterans is to indulge in activities with fellow veterans. Physical movement reduces the risk of serious and chronic illnesses, reduces stress and anxiety, improves mood, and enhances cognitive functions.
Going on a hike together or for a swim or fishing expedition can be even more helpful. It will significantly improve their quality of life and their relationship with each other. Furthermore, a change of scenery or doing something out of the ordinary will help take their minds off daily stresses, relax, and unwind. You can also help veterans enroll in veteran sports teams or group fitness classes to connect with other veterans in their community. It helps build a sense of community, comfort, and security, which is extremely beneficial in boosting their mental health.
Explore Veteran Support Programs
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has various programs that offer support for veterans in different forms. You can apply for disability compensation, get a financial claim if the veteran receives a mesothelioma diagnosis, Adapted-Housing Grants, Veterans Mortgage Life Insurance, Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance, Housing Care, Aid and Attendance, and long-term or extended geriatric care.
Most compensations and benefits are tax-free and paid to veterans, living spouses, parents, and children. However, the eligibility criteria may differ for each unique circumstance. Veteran support programs also let veterans invest their money while offering guaranteed returns. The federal government and the Veteran Affairs Department offer such schemes to help veterans grow their income and enhance their savings. They typically require little investment and grant steady returns over time.
Conclusion
Caring for veteran loved ones is crucial in helping them transform from veteran to civilian life. It can be hard for them to adjust, considering mental and physical health issues, financial troubles, and issues in coping with the changed lifestyle.
You can offer help by getting the required medical help. Moreover, you could provide emotional and financial support during the initial years and help them sign up for VA benefits. It is also beneficial to indulge in various activities and encourage them to participate in veteran community services and activities to help them connect with other veterans. It will make them feel more inclusive, loved, and appreciated.
