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Understanding the Unique Needs of Aging Veterans
Serving in the military leaves a lasting mark on those who serve. Military services instills values like independence, resilience and a sense of purpose. Those values stay with our veterans throughout their life and guide them even as they age. At Visiting Angels, we understand that caring for our veterans is more than providing daily assistance. Veterans care is about listening to their stories, honoring the sacrifices they have made, and providing care that respects their independence.
Choosing the Right Care Matters for Veterans
It can be difficult for veterans and their families to find a home care agency that truly understands what they've been through. The caregivers at Visiting Angels are not only trained to provide quality care, but they appreciate and understand the sacrifices that our veterans have made for our country. We're here to help seniors and their families every step of the way, that includes assisting veterans in accessing their VA benefits to make home care more affordable.
We know that more and more veterans are aging and will be in need of specialized care as they get older. According to the US Census Bureau, in 2021 around half of all US veterans were 65+, which is around 8.1 million people. This number will increase to 52% in 2024 and by 2035, the number of veterans over the age of 85 will have grown by 66%! Wow! That's why we are committed to understanding exactly what aging veterans need to continue living at home, where they want to be.
The challenges our senior veterans face following their military service, don’t just disappear with age; they evolve. Many veterans are deeply proud of their independence and may find it difficult to accept help. That’s why the Visiting Angels approach is rooted in compassion and respect, creating a care environment where veterans feel understood and in control of their lives.
How Visiting Angels Supports Veterans
At Visiting Angels we understand that each senior veteran is different, with their own story to tell and unique needs to be met. That's why our caregivers go above and beyond to provide care that really honors their experiences and helps them live the best life possible, while staying in the comforts of home.
- Honoring Their Independence: Veterans are widely known to be strong and self-reliant. Visiting Angels helps to preserve their sense of autonomy and dignity, allowing them to maintain control over their routines as much as possible. For example, they're able to make decisions for themselves, like what they want to eat, or what how they'd like to spend their day.
- Open Communication: Veterans appreciate clear, direct communication. Our caregivers build trust with our veteran clients by being straightforward, honest, and attentive. We want our veterans to feel respected, comfortable and heard.
- Unique Health Needs: We understand that some senior veterans face health concerns that are directly related to their time in the military. Our care is personalized with an informed approach, we are here to meet their specific needs with compassion and understanding.
- Sharing Stories: For many veterans, stories about their time in the military are a big part of their identity and sense of purpose. Our caregivers encourage them to openly share their experiences through conversation and can also help connect them with fellow veterans in the community.
- Providing Emotional Support: Visiting Angels understand that veterans can sometimes carry emotional scars from their military experience. Caregivers offer a compassionate and non-judgmental space where veterans can feel heard and understood.
Making Home Care Accessible with VA Benefits
Veterans who qualify for federal VA benefits may also have access to financial support for home care services. There are a couple of different program options that provide assistance for senior veterans to help pay for care, such as the Aid and Attendance or Community Care Network. This can make a world of difference for families seeking the right care for their veteran loved ones.
Visiting Angels is available to assist you or your loved one with the application process or direct you to a local veterans service officer who can discuss eligibility requirements. We are able to work with Minnesota veteran services throughout Hennepin, Wright, Scott Ramsey, and Carver counties and some surrounding areas throughout Minnesota.
Choosing A Care Provider That Honors Veterans
When considering home care for a veteran loved one, it’s important to choose a an agency that respects their service and values their independence. At Visiting Angels, we’re proud to serve those who served our country. Our veterans care approach is built on respect, understanding, and gratitude for the sacrifices veterans have made.
By focusing on independence and dignity, we make sure veterans can age where they feel most comfortable, their home—surrounded by caregivers who honor their journey. For families, it provides peace of mind knowing their loved one is cared for by an experienced team that recognizes the depth of their legacy.
At Visiting Angels, we’re here to support aging veterans and their families with care that enhances quality of life while respecting the incredible lives they’ve led. We would be honored to talk with you about our service options and the needs of your veteran loved one. Please reach out to us using our inquiry form or by calling us at 952-935-0789. We're here to help.
