Surviving Spouse Corner: Resources for Caregivers

Surviving Spouse Corner: Resources for Caregivers
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There are 14.3 million military and veteran caregivers, representing 5.5% of the U.S. adult population, according to a report from Rand. If you find there is a need for a caregiver in your life or if you become a caregiver, know that caregivers are not alone. Many organizations offer information, guidance, and resources. Here are some to consider:

 

MOAA

Stay in the know about legislation and news affecting the caregiver community by reading the latest articles from MOAA. You can also take action on legislation pertaining to caregivers through MOAA’s Legislative Action Center.

 

One example: The Veteran Caregiver Reeducation, Reemployment, and Retirement Act would help close gaps in caregiver financial planning and preparation by providing professional development, employment assistance, and retirement guidance specifically tailored for veteran caregivers. This legislation is critical to ensuring caregivers receive the recognition, support, and financial security they have earned through their service to veterans. Urge your lawmaker to support this bill today.

 

MOAA also partners with the Elizabeth Dole Foundation to provide Tips for Lifelong Caregiving.

 

[RELATED: Caregivers Sacrifice for Our Veterans – Now Congress Must Support Them]

 

Elizabeth Dole Foundation

The Elizabeth Dole Foundation addresses “the obstacles our military and veteran caregivers face regularly, from providing access to essential resources and support networks to calling for policy changes.” Their initiatives also include the Dole Caregiver Fellowship program and the Hidden Heroes Campaign.

 

VA Programs

The VA’s Caregiver Support Program offers clinical services to caregivers of eligible and covered veterans enrolled in the VA health care system. The program’s mission is to promote the health and well-being of family caregivers who care for our nation’s veterans.

 

Its programs and resources include the VA Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers, which offers enhanced clinical support for family caregivers of eligible veterans; Caregiver Support Program Teams, which have expertise in caregiving and, most importantly, are caring professionals; and caregiver health and well-being coaching, a personal guide who will help you develop a personal health plan based on your values, needs, and goals.

 

VA Aid and Attendance, or housebound benefits, provides monthly payments added to the amount of a monthly VA pension for qualified veterans and survivors.

 

Send Us Your Feedback

We’d love to hear from you. Please let us know if this article was helpful by sending an email to sscomm@moaa.org.

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About the Author

Cheryl Toland
Cheryl Toland

Cheryl Toland is a member of MOAA's Surviving Spouse Advisory Council.