Veterans Affairs Aid and Attendance

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Veterans Affairs Aid and Attendance - Am I Eligible ?

Written by Vivian Garcia
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Veterans have served our country well and deserve the best care when it comes to their health needs in their golden years. Assisted Living and Memory Care are an integral part of aging and should be financially planned for early in life.

Fortunately for Veterans, there are programs to help soften the impact of paying for care. One of the most accessible programs for Veterans of foreign wars is often overlooked. With a little research, Veterans can avail themselves of the much needed aid and attendance assistance that is so generously provided for their care.

As with any assistance program, there are certain conditions that must be met in order to qualify for the veteran benefits. Here are a few guidelines

You may qualify for Aid and Attendance if you get a VA pension and you meet at least one of the requirements listed below:

At least one of these must be true :

You are 65 years or older

Have a permanent and total disability; You need another person to help you perform daily activities, like bathing, feeding, and dressing

You have to stay in bed – or spend a large portion of the day in bed – because of illness or You are a patient in a nursing home due to the loss of mental or physical abilities related to a disability

Who can obtain this Aid?

There are two categories of Veterans who are eligible for Aid and Attendance assistance. They Are:

How do I know if I am a qualified Veteran?

Knowing if you qualify for aid and attendance is the first step you will need to establish.The Department of Veterans Affairs website states:

“A Veteran who was discharged from service – NOT under dishonorable conditions, Served 90 days or more of active military, naval or air service with at least 1 day during a period of war.”

List of Qualifying wars are:

Mail this application or fill out online – Examination for Housebound Status or Permanent Need for Regular Aid & Attendance
Permanent Need Examination
Request for nursing home information in connection with a claim for Aid and Attendance
Nursing Home Information
Link to request your Military Service Records
Military Service Records
Apply online for services
Apply Online
VA Pension Rates for Veterans
Veterans Pension Rates
author Vivian Delgado is a team member at Evergreen Cottages Assisted Living Memory Care Community and works daily to improve the lives of residents with Alzheimer’s and other Dementias Contact Evergreen Cottages

Last modified on Monday, 31 May 2021 08:35

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Alzheimer's Disease or Dementia - What's the Difference?

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One of the first questions that arise with the behavioral patterns Mom or Dad may be exhibiting is: Does my Mom/Dad have Alzheimer’s or Dementia?

At Evergreen Cottages, "Memory Care" is our specialty, Alzheimer's and Dementia can be confusing let's examine the differences and similarities:

Alzheimer’s is an irreversible, progressive brain disorder that slowly destroys memory and thinking skills and, eventually, the ability to carry out simple tasks.

In most people withAlzheimer's and Dementia symptoms first appear in their mid-60s. Estimates vary, but experts suggest that more than 5 million Americans may have Alzheimer’s.

Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia among older adults.

Dementia is the loss of cognitive functioning – thinking, remembering, and reasoning – and behavioral abilities to such an extent that it interferes with a person’s daily life and activities.

The risk of Alzheimer’s disease increases with age, so it’s important to watch for certain changes in behavior; such as:

Increased confusion
Short term memory problems (for example, asking the same question over and over)
Reduction in or loss of ability to do everyday activities
Other possible symptoms of Alzheimer’s dementia are:
Seizures that begin in adulthood Problems with coordination and walking Reduced ability to pay attention Behavior and personality changes, such as wandering and being less social Decreased fine motor control Difficulty finding one’s way around familiar areas
As confusing as this may sound, Dementia is often an effect of Alzheimer's Disease. However, having symptoms of Dementia does not mean that a person has Alzheimer's Disease.

Caring for a person with Alzheimer’s disease can have high physical, emotional, and financial costs. The demands of day-to-day care, changes in family roles, and decisions about placement in a safe and caring place can be difficult. Becoming well-informed about the disease is one important strategy.

To Schedule a Virtual Tour or Phone Call with one of our trained staff members please visit us at www.EvergreenCottages.com

Caregiver Empathy In Assisted Living and at Home

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Empathy towards our Caregivers

The definition of empathy is: The action of understanding, being aware of, being sensitive to, and vicariously experiencing the feelings, thoughts and experience of another of either the past or present without having the feelings, thoughts, and experience fully communicated in an objectively explicit manner.

In other words, empathy means being able to put yourself in someone else’s shoes for a while so you can imagine what it is they are going through.

Our focus here is on Caregiver Empathy. A caregiver can be a family member, spouse, child relative or even a distant relative. They could also be someone who is close to the one they are caring for, such as a neighbor or a friend.

More and more people are turning to Paid Caregivers to provide the support necessary to care for seniors who are challenged with chronic ailments such as Alzheimer's disease or other Dementias.

It is understandable then, that we may not fully believe that a Paid Caregiver could impart the love and empathy we or a close relative could have for our loved ones.

This assumption ignores the underlying truth about most caregivers who choose to serve our seniors by training for these positions. Most if not all caregivers working in Assisted Living and Memory Care communities have been caregivers to their own loved ones. They have walked their walk, having taken care of an elderly parent, relative or sibling.

Their experience in doing the family caregiving work voluntarily for many years has an impact on their decision to join the professional caregiving work.

Caregivers will relate that the fulfillment they derive from caring for seniors is unparalleled in other work they have undertaken.

Observing these angels at work will reveal the compassion they feel for those they care for. They have chosen this path because of the empathy they feel for others and their caring nature. Giving back to the community is their nature and they do this by sharing their love for your parents and family members. Observing them working will give you a sense of their unwavering passion for seniors.

We are very fortunate to have an empathetic team of Caregivers that keep Evergreen Cottages at the top of the care pyramid.

Our Caregivers develop relationships daily with your Loved Ones and are there for them when they need them, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, providing Loving care with compassion.

When caring for your loved one, you too deserve the same care and empathy imparted to your loved one. Caring for your loved one can be a rewarding experience, however it is also possible to feel anxious, stressed and worn out from performing your caregiving duties.

It is okay to find help, particularly if your loved one requires ongoing care for Alzheimer's Disease or other dementia. Seek out the services of trained communities with empathetic caregivers. You will thank yourself that you did.

When is Procrastination Not Appropriate? Making a timely decision for your loved ones Alzheimer's Care

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Dragging out the decision to find the right Care for your loved one with Memory Care needs can be detrimental to their Quality of Life.

Let's Face it.. we're all busy with our daily lives, work, home upkeep, family... so when our life suddenly changes and Mom or Dad can no longer care for themselves, we may be tempted to ignore the issue and hope it will pass... Memory Issues, Forgetting..are all signs of Dementia.

Making a timely decision to move your loved one into a Memory Care Community can dramatically impact their sense of wellbeing. The specially trained staff is at their beck and call 24 hours a day, serving up fresh cooked meals, snacks, games and entertainment and most of all, Companionship.

What Can go wrong when we Procrastinate?

Loneliness is the most damaging for senior adults living alone at home or with a spouse who needs constant care.

Cooking becomes a chore and mealtimes are missed so their nutrition needs are not met, resulting in poor health.

Inactivity leads to muscle mass loss

Anxiety of becoming lost keeps them indoors and the only interaction may be sitting in front of the TV.. not a good activity!

Falls are more prevalent when muscle mass is lost due to inactivity and balance becomes an issue.

Choosing 24 Hour Care in a timely manner can avoid many of these inevitable outcomes.

Making a timely Decision is essential when it comes to Dad or Moms care.

We may be tempted to ignore the changes hoping that it will pass, let's face it, something is different when you visit the yard /lawn is not looking like they used to upkeep it. Flower Beds are untidy. The living room is starting to look cluttered. The bed has not been made. Dishes are in the sink and the refrigerator hasn't been cleaned out for weeks.

All these clues are easy for us to explain away and make excuses for Mom and Dad. Let's be honest! this is not normal and they wouldn't ever leave dishes in the sink. You know your Mom and Dad.

Dad or Mom are caring less about there personal appearance and have lost a significant amount of weight.

These are signs that cannot go un addressed, this is the time to act. To get them into a home-like community setting where there basic needs are being cared for. Where they can enjoy three square meals and a tidy environment.

Companionship is important for mental wellbeing. Especially if Mom or Dad live at home alone. The mental stimulation necessary for maintain a balanced life is missing. They deserve better and we can do the right thing if we act in a timely manner.

Excuses about what our parents like or the fact that they've lived in the same home for years or that they can't live separately are easy for us to make. The fact is that Mom has aged and Dad does not have the strength to care for her day and night and take care of his own needs.

Falls are often prevalent in a home environment where parents live alone. Getting a spouse up off the floor is not an easy thing to do. We can't imagine the anxiety our senior parents feel in discussing these issues with their children.

We can do the right thing, setting our own desires aside in favor of a better decision and a Timely decision to place our loved ones in a professional care environment.

At Evergreen Cottages we provide assistance with all Activities of Daily Living known as ADL's. Upon admission to one of our Cottages, the Executive Director will go over your loved ones need to create a Care Plan to enrich their wellbeing.

Is Guilt preventing you from Placing your loved one in Professional Care?

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Is Guilt preventing you from Placing your loved one in Professional Care? Click here to Read

Emotions run high and it is natural to feel that we're breaking our promise to our parents when we consider transitioning them to a Care Home. The feeling that we are betraying them when they most need our support can be overwhelming.

If we stop to reflect on the real impact of our actions at a time like this, we're bound to feel that no-one can do a better job of caring for Mom or Dad than we can. That is certain. No one can understand what your loved one needs most as well as you do.

Entrusting your loved ones care to caregivers in a memory Care and Assisted Living community is a big decision. It requires " Letting Go" and the feeling of "Losing Control "can be daunting.

Reflecting on the underlying cause of these feelings may reveal that our decisions are often guided by an deep rooted emotion of guilt. That's a natural feeling to have.

If we can recognize this feeling, we'll be able to step back from the emotion and make an objective observation of what might be best for Mom or Dad.

For us to be able to help those we love, we must be in the best physical, mental and emotional shape to do so. Setting aside the emotion and recognizing that a community of trained professional caregivers would be better suited to provide a consistent level of care 24 hours a day, 365 days a year may serve us well.

Allowing a care team to do the mundane chores of Bathing, Feeding, Cleaning and Dressing your loved one will allow you the freedom to return to a more normal routine. Your loved one may not be able to articulate how they feel about you changing their diapers and cleaning up after them, so it's important to consider how your actions may be impacting them.

Self-care is Key to a healthy relationship when taking care of a loved one. You can find the time to enjoy your family and plan important celebrations with your loved one in a community if you allow yourself to be removed from the caregiver role.

Relax, taking a break from all the overwhelming responsibilities allows you to breath and reset yourself. Giving you energy to carry on with your day. You'll find it more enjoyable to visit with your loved one in their new home,while preserving their dignity.

Taking Care of your Body, getting a good nights sleep, a balanced diet and time to exercise are all important to preserve your own health. You'll gain the strength and energy to be there for everyone, including your loved ones with memory care needs.

Keeping yourself informed, Knowing as much as you can about your loved ones condition and the modifications that need to be made to provide them with a higher quality of life.

Your loved ones quality of life is better when they can live in a home-style environment rather than an Institution like setting. Choose carefully and your loved one and you will be more relaxed.

The decision to move Dad or Mom to an Assisted Living or Memory Care Community is not an easy one, and we are here to assist you while you find yourself looking for a safe place for Dad or Mom to call home.

It is ok to ask for help. Give yourself permission to live a normal life. Release the Guilt. You don't have to do this alone. With 24 hour care at Evergreen Cottages, you know there is someone available for your loved one when they need them the most.

Early Signs of Dementia: Red Flags to Look Out For

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Early Signs of Dementia: The Red Flags to Look Out For

When your loved one gets a little forgetful, you may think he is just getting older and less mentally sharp. But as time goes by, your loved one may show a variety of other symptoms related to dementia. This article will list a few red flags that could indicate their possible onset of the condition. Please keep in mind that not all cases of dementia are easy to identify, and it's vital for you to be well-aware of and monitor your loved one's behaviors so that you can act on this knowledge to get them help as soon as possible.

What Is Dementia?:

Dementia is a progressive brain disorder that affects your loved one's memory, thinking, judgment, and behavior. It's the most common form of long-term brain condition among older adults. The causes of dementia are still unknown, but research indicates that it's the brain's gradual deterioration due to some factors such as genetics, lifestyle choices, and other medical conditions.

No one knows your parent's personality and hobbies better than you. So if you witnessed that your aging parent exhibits some unusual behavior or experienced a feeling that something is off. There is a good chance that your parents are struggling with a disease.

Identifying significant dementia symptoms in older adults and recording the early stages of dementia can make a huge difference. Your observations could give helpful insight to physicians, which can be used for making a diagnosis.

Dementia is a brain disorder that affects memory, thinking abilities, attention span, and communication with others. It can be caused by Alzheimer's disease, vascular dementia, and Lewy body disease. This type of illness is most common in the elderly and is also becoming more common for middle-aged people that are not receiving adequate treatment.

Signs and Symptoms

It is crucial to note that everyone's aging process is different, and the following signs may not be true for everyone. However, listed below are general signs that your elderly parent may have dementia:

1. Memory loss

Your aging parent may start forgetting important information for work, home, or personal details. Or maybe they don't seem to remember simple day-to-day things. Additionally, your parent may be finding it challenging to do things that used to come very easily to them, like paying bills or managing the family budget.

2.Poor Decision-making

Your parent may begin losing interest in activities that used to interest them, such as exercise or visiting their grandchildren. It can lead to an inability to make decisions that can put your loved one's safety and well-being at risk in many cases. They may begin making unwise financial decisions and investing in things they will outgrow or not use anymore.

3. Difficulty in Finding the Right Words

When your loved one is having a conversation with you, they may often use the wrong word for something. Additionally, your loved ones may repeat themselves several times because they can't find the right word to express themselves.

4. Changes in Personality and Behavior

When your aging parent is suffering from dementia, mild personality and behavior changes can occur even if their personality was mild to start with. You may begin to notice them becoming more irritable and agitated, less dependable and responsible, and even displaying unusual behaviors like hoarding or collecting items that don't make any sense to you or other family members.

5. Inability to Perform Simple Tasks It may include a declining ability to read the newspaper, having difficulty saying goodbye, difficulty walking, and an inability to perform simple tasks like writing a check or signing a bill. Additionally, dementia can make it hard for your loved one to recognize faces and maintain eye contact.

6. Less Concern With Appearance

Clothing may become a challenge to your loved one, especially in the earlier stages of the disease when people begin to lose track of time and self-care becomes a difficult task. Additionally, you may notice that they don't care about how they look, often dressing in pajamas or bedclothes when they're thought to be at home.

7. Change in Sleeping Patterns

Your loved one may begin to sleep a lot more or a lot less than they did before. For example, they may sleep during the day and be awake at night or wake up in the middle of the night and have trouble going back to sleep.

8. Changes in Eating Habits

Significant changes in your parent's eating habits, such as neglecting meals, not eating their favorite foods, or having very little interest in food, can be symptoms of dementia. In addition, your loved ones may start forgetting how to prepare their food and feel like you are forcing them to eat something unappealing or making them eat when they're not hungry.

If you notice some of these signs in your parents, don't just brush them off because they could be a sign of a serious illness. Instead, be gentle and take time to truly listen to your parent and let them know you are there for them. Seeking help is an option to take to confirm if your loved one has acquired the disease.

How to Get Help for Your Aging Parents’ Dementia Symptoms

1. Consult a Doctor

Even though it can be difficult to talk about, you should consult a doctor if you suspect your elderly parent suffers from dementia. An honest, professional opinion from a physician can go a long way in helping you better understand the situation and develop a personalized care plan that can give your loved one the best quality of life during this challenging time.

2. Find Companion Support

If you are concern with your parent's welfare but you are sometimes busy with work. It is better to find companionship support ! for your parent to take care of them 24/7. It will give you peace of mind to know that they are being taken care of when away from home.

3. Exercise Compassion

Practice the art of compassion anytime dealing with an elderly loved one with dementia, particularly during these potentially difficult times when symptoms of dementia or another illness may make them more confused or angry than usual.

4. Look for Proper Healthcare Facilities

If your parents’ symptoms are starting to worry you, this is the time to take action. Many facilities and healthcare communities like Evergreen Cottages Assisted Living ! offer home care for senior citizens who have dementia. Their caregivers can be a great source of help if your parent shows a decline in their mental health.

When the mind ages, the body usually follows. Many people, especially adults over fifty, will start to worry about their parents’ health if they see them forgetting important dates or events. If you are worried that your aging parent is not doing well, try talking about their symptoms with them. The list above is very general and may not apply to everyone with dementia, but it can give you a leg up on identifying the issue quickly so you can get help for your loved one as soon as possible.

Author bio

I'm Andrea Gibbs, Born, raised, and still living in New York. I'm a work-at-home mom with a background in business development, strategy, and social media marketing. I'm a blog contributor at Serenity Senior care to motivate other parents about how they can enhance their elderly loved ones quality of life.