When you need to rely on somebody else for assistance, how independent do you feel? Many people, especially those who have been on their own for the majority of their life, feel it’s a sign of a lack of independence when they have to call on somebody else for help. For aging veterans, this is just as true as it is for other men and women. However, it may be absolutely necessary for these individuals in order for them to maintain safety and a higher quality of life.
How to help people see this as a benefit.
It’s not always easy to convince a veteran or any other individual that hiring a home care aide is actually in their best interest, but it is. They will see it as a loss of independence. After all, if they have to rely on somebody else for assistance getting out of bed, to get into and out of the shower, get dressed, to go to the store, to get to a doctor’s appointment, to prepare a meal, or anything else, how independent are they really?
That all depends on a person’s perspective.
There are many reasons people rely on help, even though they are completely independent individuals. Consider a small family, husband and wife, two children, and living far away from their closest family members. One afternoon a leak begins developing in the kitchen sink.
Neither of the adults really have any experience with plumbing, so they have to call a plumber. That doesn’t mean they have lost their independence, does it?
As people get older it becomes more difficult for them to continue doing the things they used to take for granted. Just because they may need help with a few things doesn’t mean they lose their independence. This is a highly important point for many people, including veterans.
A professional and experienced home care aide is ideally suited to support these men and women, thus helping them maintain their independence and not having to rely on family or friends all the time.
What about for veterans who can’t afford it?
Some veterans may assume they simply can’t afford to pay for a home care aide. In these situations, if they are considered a wartime veteran and can prove home care is necessary, they may actually qualify for the Aid and Attendance Benefit. This is a pension that helps veterans pay for home care support, thus assisting them in maintaining an independent lifestyle.
Our VetAssist® Program can help you apply for the VA’s Aid and Attendance benefit and access the home care you need. For more information and to learn about The VetAssist Program, contact Veteran’s Home Care at (888) 314-6075.
