Critter Corner: Resources for Veteran’s with Dementia

Dear Magic,

My mother is a veteran who has dementia and I will be her main caregiver. Do you know of any resources that can help me better understand veterans and dementia and provide tips for me in my new caregiver role? Thanks so much!

Hal Pinherr

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Dear Hal,

As a caregiver for a veteran whose been diagnosed with dementia, it is helpful to become familiar with the symptoms, types, stages, and treatments, and to access caregiving tips. Fortunately, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs has a variety of resources to help, as follows:

• Understanding Dementia — Get basic information about what dementia is, the stages, and treatments.
• Coping with a Dementia Diagnosis — Find out how your mother can stay healthy and active, how to arrange for her safety at home and in the community, and how to plan for the future. Play see our previous article about asset protection planning for one way to plan for the future!
• Understanding Reversible “Dementias” — Read about factors that can cause symptoms that mimic dementia.
• Caring for a Loved One with Dementia: What to Expect — Learn how caregivers can help with daily life, find new ways to communicate, and cope with problematic behaviors.
• Caring for a Loved One with End-Stage Dementia — Learn how to recognize advanced or end-stage dementia and what to do to help.
• VHA GEC Shared Decision Making Guide
• Home Safety Workbook for Caregivers of People with Dementia.

The following are some helpful websites and support numbers you can refer to:

– Veterans Health Library (VHL), www.veteranshealthlibrary.org, offers basic information about dementia for veterans and families.

– Veteran Caregiver Support Website: www.caregiver.va.gov

– Veterans Caregiver Support Line: 1-855-260-3274

– HHS Alzheimer’s Website: www.alzheimers.gov

– National Institute on Aging (NIA) Alzheimer’s Disease Education and Referral Center (ADEAR): www.nia.nih.gov/alzheimers

– U.S. Administration on Aging Eldercare Locator: 1-800-677-1116; www.eldercare.gov

Click here for some additional caregiver resources.

For a helpful caregiver guide, click here.

I hope these resources are helpful for you in your new caregiver role. For more helpful links, please visit the Tools and Resources section and refer to our Trusted Senior-Serving Professionals for referrals on the Farr Law Firm Website.

Magic