Caring for aging loved ones brings unique changes and challenges for any caregiver, but as adult children caring for seniors, service members have different concerns due to military obligations such as deployments. Fortunately, Military OneSource provides free, confidential elder care consultations by phone to eligible service members and their families that can help you get the support you need.
Service members and their families eligible for Military OneSource elder care consultations include:
- All active-duty service members
- National Guard and reserve members (regardless of activation status)
- Members of the Coast Guard Reserve, activated as part of the Department of the Navy under Title 10 authority
- Spouses and dependent children of eligible service members who are authorized in the Defense Enrollment and Eligibility Reporting System
- A family member who is managing the affairs of an eligible service member when the service member is deployed
- A severely injured service member of one of the services, or a designated family member of a severely injured member who isn't able to handle his or her own affairs
- Medically retired individuals (eligible until 180 days past their end of tour of service, retirement date or discharge date)
What to expect from an elder care consultation
Elder care specialty consultations give you the chance to talk to a trained professional about your questions and receive referrals to services and programs that meet your specific needs. Eligible service members and their families will receive:
- A one-on-one session with a work-life consultant
- Research and referrals for senior citizen programs and services, such as the Department of Veterans Affairs Aid and Attendance benefit and Medicaid waiver programs
- Information about in-home care, transportation and insurance
- Help finding assisted living facilities, skilled nursing facilities or continuing care retirement communities
The Aid and Attendance benefit for veterans
Military OneSource elder care consultants can help you understand this benefit and how it can help you or your loved one. Here are some facts about the Veterans Affairs Aid and Attendance benefit:
- Helps with the costs of a variety of health care services, including home care or care within a facility
- Is paid to veterans who served at least one day during a time of war and who are already collecting a compensation or pension
- Is also paid to surviving spouses of eligible veterans
Apply for the Aid and Attendance benefit at your regional Veterans Affairs office.
Medicaid waiver programs
Medicaid waiver programs are available to senior citizens and adults with disabilities. Each state has a different name for its Medicaid waiver program, but many programs are generally known as home- and community-based services, or waivers. Coverage and eligibility requirements vary from state to state. Elder care consultants can help you understand the benefits and eligibility where you live, and can guide you through the application process.
Services and support provided through Medicaid waiver programs include:
- Home modifications
- Durable medical equipment
- Caregiver support programs
- Transportation services
- Respite care
- Personal emergency response systems
- Home-delivered meals
- Case management
- In-home care or care within a facility
Program services are typically available for:
- Senior citizens
- Adults with physical, mental or developmental disabilities
- Persons with traumatic brain injuries
You and your family don't have to feel alone. There are many resources available to help with caring for your aging loved one, and Military OneSource is a good place to start. An elder care consultant can help you figure out the best plan for you and your family, and provide you with the resources you need and deserve.