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BACKGROUND/RATIONALE:
The VA is committed to meeting the needs of Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF) and Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) veterans. Current research has demonstrated a high prevalence of mental health disorders (post-traumatic stress disorder [PTSD], depression, substance use, anxiety disorders) in this patient population. One cohort that requires special attention is the OEF/OIF veterans who are 50 years of age and older. This group, largely composed of National Guard and reservists, accounts for about 10% of the deployed forces, which is a significantly higher fraction than that seen in recent conflicts. Currently only journalistic reports exist to shed light on the needs of this emerging cohort and its potentially unique experiences. These stories indicate that National Guard and reservist have experienced more active combat than other troops, which may contribute to higher rates of PTSD and suicide. Older OEF/OIF veterans also face significant social pressures, including having family members who are unaccustomed to their frequent tours of duty, as well as employment pressures related to their extended absences from established careers. Finally, OEF/OIF veterans 50 years of age and older are more likely to experience physical limitations or to suffer from comorbidities that may affect physical and/or mental health during and after deployment.
OBJECTIVE(S):
Given a lack of study in this patient population, VA HSR&D has expressed interest in examining the needs of the aging OEF/OIF veterans. As no systematic studies currently exist, we propose to conduct a small pilot study, in support of a VA HSR&D Merit Review application, that examines the "black box" surrounding the needs of the aging post-deployment veterans.
METHODS:
Using in-depth interview techniques conducted with OEF/OIF veterans 50 years of age and older, the specific aims of this pilot project are to: (1) Determine the perceived physical and mental problems experienced during and after deployment; (2) Determine any perceived differences the veterans have in how they compare their experiences and needs with those of younger OEF/OIF veterans; and (3) Determine whether and how the VA healthcare services meet the needs of the older OEF/OIF veterans with a focus on facilitators and barriers to use within the VA system.
FINDINGS/RESULTS:
No results to report at this time.
IMPACT:
The aging OEF/OIF veterans present an unprecedented challenge to the VA healthcare system. With the aging reservists and the new practice of employing the National Guard in extended tours of duty, the VA will face for the first time an emerging cohort of veterans who require post-deployment services, as well as close attention to physical comorbid health conditions that come with advancing age. Given that no information exists on the experiences of this group, the proposed pilot study will be the first to characterize the needs of the aging returning veteran.
PUBLICATIONS:
None at this time.
DRA:
Aging and Age-Related Changes, Health Services and Systems, Military and Environmental Exposures
DRE:
Epidemiology, Treatment, Quality of Care
Keywords:
Access, Deployment Related
MeSH Terms:
none
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