Omaha’s Caregiver of the Month: Jojo Agbeve

Caregiver of the month Jojo Agbeve has been in Omaha for just two years.

She’s been with A Place At Home for about seven months. Originally from Maryland, Jojo moved here with her parents, who wanted a quieter life. She’s currently a nursing student and works as a CNA and CMA for A Place At Home. Her goal of nursing stems from watching her mother, who is also a nurse.

“I’ve always loved medicine.”

We spoke a bit about her ambition to be a nurse and where she thinks she’ll work once she graduates. Her interest is in psychiatric nursing, though she says she doesn’t want to work in a facility or community setting. She appreciates working in homes with seniors, stating, “In facilities, you don’t have time to build a personal connection with your patients. When I’m working in the home, I’m like a guest in your home who’s there to help.”

Jojo prefers to be a caregiver where she can make that connection with her clients.

Jojo started with APAH just as Covid-19 was ramping up here in Omaha. She shared that at first, she was scared but soon took the position that none of it was in her hands. She said she’s just grateful to be a frontline worker, pointing out that there are many people out there who lost their jobs or weren’t able to work. The seniors she’s been serving have been at the forefront of her mind the entire time. “I just think, if this is scary for me, what are my clients feeling?”

She shared a story about a particular client who she helped last minute to get him to the grocery store during a snowstorm just before Christmas. Once in her car, they realized that they enjoy the same music. He told her that he didn’t get to see his family at Thanksgiving because of the pandemic and that sharing that time with her, jamming to the same music, really made him feel better about things.

At A Place At Home, we honor and value that empathy in our care team. It’s no wonder that Jojo is Caregiver of the Month. As far as working at A Place At Home, Jojo shares that she likes it a lot. She appreciates the flexible scheduling and takes ownership of her role and how significant it is.

“We are the face of A Place At Home – we represent the company.”

If you or someone you know is looking for a rewarding career in an industry built on helping others, apply to work with us today

Parkinson’s Disease – Symptoms May Occur Years Before Diagnosis

A shot of a senior's hands filling out a chart with a pen.

Parkinson’s Disease is a slow and progressive neurological condition.

PD occurs when the nerve cells in the brain (neurons) that produce dopamine begin to break down or die. The nervous system uses dopamine to communicate between nerve cells. Dopamine affects our moods, movement, and memory, among other things. Parkinson’s Disease attacks the nerve cells that produce dopamine. Individuals diagnosed with PD may experience tremors, difficulty speaking and swallowing generalized slowness, and shuffling. PD has been diagnosed in over a million people in the US alone.  

That number doesn’t include the number of people who love those diagnosed and its impact on their lives.

Unfortunately, we don’t know much about why people develop Parkinson’s Disease. Studies indicate it may be hereditary, but family members’ occurrence isn’t consistent enough to prove this true. Some environmental triggers have been cited, but the risk of developing PD due to exposure to these is still low. Stress, particularly life events that can be traumatic, can also cause PD.

Specific motor deficits need to be present for an official diagnosis of PD. However, there are more subtle signs that can occur years before. Below are some of the most common ones:

  1. REM behavior disorder (RBD) – This is a newly developed, sudden movement during sleep. Specifically during the REM cycle of sleep. Often described as “acting out dreams,” this symptom may go unnoticed by the person exhibiting the behavior. A spouse or partner who is woken up frequently by sudden jerks or kicks may be the person who first notices that there’s an issue at all. While RBD doesn’t mean that PD is present, those who experience it (with no known cause) are at higher risk of being diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease in the future.
  2. Loss of sense of smell (anosmia) – Losing your sense of smell (when there is no other discernable cause) can be an early predictor of a PD diagnosis down the road. When related to PD, anosmia happens when the protein that leads to Parkinson’s Disease accumulates in the part of the brain that is responsible for the sense of smell. It’s important to note that losing your sense of smell does not mean you will be diagnosed with PD. However, for those that experience this, there is a 50% chance they will be diagnosed in the next five to ten years.
  3. Voice changes – If there is a noticeable and new change in your voice’s softness or volume (with no other cause), this can be an early PD symptom.
  4. Stiffness or difficulty moving – one of the early signs that something may be going on is a new stiffness with movements. Noticing that your arms don’t swing the same way they used to may indicate that something is going on.
  5. Digestive issues – A myriad of things, including diet, medications, and other conditions, can cause digestive problems. However, new and ongoing constipation and a feeling of being full even after eating small meals can be an early indicator of Parkinson’s Disease.
  6. Changes in handwriting (micrographia) – This may seem like an odd symptom. Still, if you notice that your writing has become smaller or crowded together, it may be an early sign of Parkinson’s Disease.
  7. Lack of facial expression (facial masking) – This one may be pointed out to you by others. Others may tell you that your face is “serious” or that you look like you’re in a bad mood. It’s important to note that some medications can cause this. However, if you’re experiencing new facial masking with no known cause, it is worth speaking with your doctor.
  8. Stooping or hunching over – this is a symptom that is commonly associated with PD. If you’ve noticed a difference in your posture, it may be an early symptom of Parkinson’s Disease.

If you’re experiencing some of these symptoms, it doesn’t necessarily mean you should expect to live with Parkinson’s later in life.

Most of the above symptoms can be due to other conditions, lifestyle habits, and certain medications. If you are noticing some changes in these areas of your life and there doesn’t seem to be an apparent reason why it can be a cause for concern. Fortunately, there is information about managing the symptoms and even slow the progression of Parkinson’s Disease.

It’s common knowledge that diet and exercise are crucial to health and good quality of life. This is particularly true with this disease. Staying active with regular exercise has been shown to slow the progression of PD. Most of us are aware that exercise is beneficial for the physical detriments caused by Parkinson’s (muscle weakness, stiffness, falls).

Studies done have shown that exercise works on a neurologic level as well.

Regular exercise won’t replace or repair degenerating neurons. It can, however, encourage the brain to use what dopamine it does produce more productively. The human brain is always adapting and evolving as it needs to function most efficiently. This adaptive behavior is called neuroplasticity. When observed in Parkinson’s patients, researchers theorize that the neuroplasticity benefits gained through regular physical activity outweigh the disease’s degenerative effects.

If you do find yourself exhibiting any of the early symptoms of PD, it’s important to remember that you do have a measure of control.

First, speak with your doctor about your concerns. They will help you determine if Parkinson’s may impact you personally in the future. If this is the case, do what you can now. Maintain a healthy diet that’s rich in lean protein, whole foods, and fiber. Stay hydrated. Generally, it would be best if you drank half your body weight in ounces of water each day. If you don’t already have one, start a regular exercise routine, and be consistent with it. And do what you can to mitigate and address the stress you have in your life.A Place At Home has compassionate and professional caregivers available 24 hours a day. If Parkinson’s is impacting your life, contact your local A Place At Home office. We are honored to help.

Parkinson’s Disease – Symptoms May Occur Years Before Diagnosis

Parkinson’s Disease is a slow and progressive neurological condition.

PD occurs when the nerve cells in the brain (neurons) that produce dopamine begin to break down or die. The nervous system uses dopamine to communicate between nerve cells. Dopamine affects our moods, movement, and memory, among other things. Parkinson’s Disease attacks the nerve cells that produce dopamine. Individuals diagnosed with PD may experience tremors, difficulty speaking and swallowing generalized slowness, and shuffling. PD has been diagnosed in over a million people in the US alone.  

That number doesn’t include the number of people who love those diagnosed and its impact on their lives.

Unfortunately, we don’t know much about why people develop Parkinson’s Disease. Studies indicate it may be hereditary, but family members’ occurrence isn’t consistent enough to prove this true. Some environmental triggers have been cited, but the risk of developing PD due to exposure to these is still low. Stress, particularly life events that can be traumatic, can also cause PD.

Specific motor deficits need to be present for an official diagnosis of PD. However, there are more subtle signs that can occur years before. Below are some of the most common ones:

  1. REM behavior disorder (RBD) – This is a newly developed, sudden movement during sleep. Specifically during the REM cycle of sleep. Often described as “acting out dreams,” this symptom may go unnoticed by the person exhibiting the behavior. A spouse or partner who is woken up frequently by sudden jerks or kicks may be the person who first notices that there’s an issue at all. While RBD doesn’t mean that PD is present, those who experience it (with no known cause) are at higher risk of being diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease in the future.
  2. Loss of sense of smell (anosmia) – Losing your sense of smell (when there is no other discernable cause) can be an early predictor of a PD diagnosis down the road. When related to PD, anosmia happens when the protein that leads to Parkinson’s Disease accumulates in the part of the brain that is responsible for the sense of smell. It’s important to note that losing your sense of smell does not mean you will be diagnosed with PD. However, for those that experience this, there is a 50% chance they will be diagnosed in the next five to ten years.
  3. Voice changes – If there is a noticeable and new change in your voice’s softness or volume (with no other cause), this can be an early PD symptom.
  4. Stiffness or difficulty moving – one of the early signs that something may be going on is a new stiffness with movements. Noticing that your arms don’t swing the same way they used to may indicate that something is going on.
  5. Digestive issues – A myriad of things, including diet, medications, and other conditions, can cause digestive problems. However, new and ongoing constipation and a feeling of being full even after eating small meals can be an early indicator of Parkinson’s Disease.
  6. Changes in handwriting (micrographia) – This may seem like an odd symptom. Still, if you notice that your writing has become smaller or crowded together, it may be an early sign of Parkinson’s Disease.
  7. Lack of facial expression (facial masking) – This one may be pointed out to you by others. Others may tell you that your face is “serious” or that you look like you’re in a bad mood. It’s important to note that some medications can cause this. However, if you’re experiencing new facial masking with no known cause, it is worth speaking with your doctor.
  8. Stooping or hunching over – this is a symptom that is commonly associated with PD. If you’ve noticed a difference in your posture, it may be an early symptom of Parkinson’s Disease.

If you’re experiencing some of these symptoms, it doesn’t necessarily mean you should expect to live with Parkinson’s later in life.

Most of the above symptoms can be due to other conditions, lifestyle habits, and certain medications. If you are noticing some changes in these areas of your life and there doesn’t seem to be an apparent reason why it can be a cause for concern. Fortunately, there is information about managing the symptoms and even slow the progression of Parkinson’s Disease.

It’s common knowledge that diet and exercise are crucial to health and good quality of life. This is particularly true with this disease. Staying active with regular exercise has been shown to slow the progression of PD. Most of us are aware that exercise is beneficial for the physical detriments caused by Parkinson’s (muscle weakness, stiffness, falls).

Studies done have shown that exercise works on a neurologic level as well.

Regular exercise won’t replace or repair degenerating neurons. It can, however, encourage the brain to use what dopamine it does produce more productively. The human brain is always adapting and evolving as it needs to function most efficiently. This adaptive behavior is called neuroplasticity. When observed in Parkinson’s patients, researchers theorize that the neuroplasticity benefits gained through regular physical activity outweigh the disease’s degenerative effects.

If you do find yourself exhibiting any of the early symptoms of PD, it’s important to remember that you do have a measure of control.

First, speak with your doctor about your concerns. They will help you determine if Parkinson’s may impact you personally in the future. If this is the case, do what you can now. Maintain a healthy diet that’s rich in lean protein, whole foods, and fiber. Stay hydrated. Generally, it would be best if you drank half your body weight in ounces of water each day. If you don’t already have one, start a regular exercise routine, and be consistent with it. And do what you can to mitigate and address the stress you have in your life.

A Place At Home has compassionate and professional caregivers available 24 hours a day. If Parkinson’s is impacting your life, reach out to us. We are honored to help.

National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day: Honoring the Anniversary of the Attack, the Lives Lost, and Dorie Miller

President Roosevelt proclaimed December 7th to honor the anniversary of the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor and the lives lost that day. 

The attack on Pearl Harbor ushered in the United States’ active involvement in World War II. The attack itself lasted just a bit over an hour but killed a total of 2,403 US citizens, 68 of whom were civilians. This day is relevant, not only because of its historical significance. 

Dorie Miller was the first African American to be awarded the Navy Cross – the highest award given in the Navy.

During the attack, Dorie attended to his wounded captain, moving him to safer cover, and broke racially motivated protocol at the time to man a machine gun, taking down two Japanese aircraft. After the attack, Dorie was one of the last men to leave his ship as it went down. He spent this time pulling injured sailors out of the water and to safety. In 2019, the Navy began building a supercarrier, christened the “USS Dorie Miller.”

Dorie’s actions exemplify what it truly means to honor your country, despite the odds against you. 

A Place At Home honors all veterans, whether they served during wartime or not. All across the country, our caregivers are helping veterans stay in their homes safely and independently. It’s the least we can do to thank them for their time and service. 

Veterans spend their careers serving so we can stay safely in our homes; we are honored to do the same for them when the time comes.

For veterans specifically, there are financial resources available to help pay for in-home care, should the need arise. These benefits can cover homemaker services as well as personal care. Veterans need only speak with their team at the VA. Their physician can write an order for up to nine hours a week of care, with no out-of-pocket expense for the vet. As well, a benefit called Aid and Attendance exists for not only veterans but their surviving spouses. This particular benefit has eligibility guidelines but will pay for care either in the home or in a senior living community, up to $27,195 per year.

We are proud to ensure these American heroes have the care and security they need when they need it most. If you are a veteran or know someone who is, reach out to us today. We will help you navigate the options and benefits available.

National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day: Honoring the Anniversary of the Attack, the Lives Lost, and Dorie Miller

President Roosevelt proclaimed December 7th to honor the anniversary of the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor and the lives lost that day. 

The attack on Pearl Harbor ushered in the United States’ active involvement in World War II. The attack itself lasted just a bit over an hour but killed a total of 2,403 US citizens, 68 of whom were civilians. This day is relevant, not only because of its historical significance. 

Dorie Miller was the first African American to be awarded the Navy Cross – the highest award given in the Navy.

During the attack, Dorie attended to his wounded captain, moving him to safer cover, and broke racially motivated protocol at the time to man a machine gun, taking down two Japanese aircraft. After the attack, Dorie was one of the last men to leave his ship as it went down. He spent this time pulling injured sailors out of the water and to safety. In 2019, the Navy began building a supercarrier, christened the “USS Dorie Miller.”

Dorie’s actions exemplify what it truly means to honor your country, despite the odds against you. 

A Place At Home honors all veterans, whether they served during wartime or not. All across the country, our caregivers are helping veterans stay in their homes safely and independently. It’s the least we can do to thank them for their time and service. 

Veterans spend their careers serving so we can stay safely in our homes; we are honored to do the same for them when the time comes.

For veterans specifically, there are financial resources available to help pay for in-home care, should the need arise. These benefits can cover homemaker services as well as personal care. Veterans need only speak with their team at the VA. Their physician can write an order for up to nine hours a week of care, with no out-of-pocket expense for the vet. As well, a benefit called Aid and Attendance exists for not only veterans but their surviving spouses. This particular benefit has eligibility guidelines but will pay for care either in the home or in a senior living community, up to $27,195 per year.

We are proud to ensure these American heroes have the care and security they need when they need it most. If you are a veteran or know someone who is, reach out to us today. We will help you navigate the options and benefits available.

Home Care Prices – Knowing What You Need Saves Big Bucks

Home Care Pricing – The Devil Is In The Details

Do you need to find home care services for yourself or a family member? Are you trying to find home cares prices you can afford? Whether a family member or the client does the looking, the terminology in the home care industry is confusing and frustrating. Choose the wrong type of home care services and you’ll pay hundreds of dollars more in senior care costs. Here are some quick, easy pointers to help you navigate these services like a Pro.

Home Health Is Not The Same As Home Care

Home Health is what the name implies…health care in the home or senior living community where the Client lives. An example would be physical therapy at home after an accident. These folks work through insurance programs like Medicare or VA most of the time and prices are provided. This also means Home Health Agencies will not accept companion or homemaker service requests under normal circumstances. Home Health services are often assigned by the hospital, nursing facility or rehab center the client is leaving. Regardless, patients DO have the right to make this choice themselves.

Home Care: Companion Care vs. Private Duty Home Care

Home Care services are centered around non-medical assistance that allows the Client to age more safely while living in the comfort of their own home, family member’s home or senior living community. Home Care gets broken into two service levels in most states. These service levels are Companion Care and Private Duty. Prices vary significantly between them. Here are brief descriptions of their services and differences.

Private Duty

These providers perform a range of personal care tasks called ADLs (Activities of Daily Living). ADLs include bathing, toileting and dressing patients unable to perform these activities for themselves. While they are also able to perform Companion Care services, these providers often require a minimum number of hours and are generally more expensive. Hourly base rates often range from $23-$35+ on average. Add-ons drive the costs even higher. If you need a more hands-on care approach, Private Duty is what you’re looking for. However, many folks seeking basic services hear these rates and go no further. Yet, there is still another option. This alternative to Private Duty is Companion Care.

Companion Care

These providers offer the level of care most families seek. These families want someone to help with IADLs (Independent Activities of Daily Living) while the Client is home alone. This list of services allows for basic companionship, light housekeeping, fixing a meal, medication reminders, grocery shopping, etc. The Caregivers offered by these providers are usually a mix of CNAs, Home Health Aides and independent Caregivers. They provide the majority of the services Private Duty providers perform at a lower cost per hour. As a result of the reduced level of care needed, prices for these services average just $20-$27 per hour based on the number of days and hours being requested.

Agencies vs. Registries

It is also important to be aware of the differences between Home Care Agencies and Home Care Registries. While both may provide Private Duty services or specialize in Companion Care duties, the way they operate is quite different.

Registries (or Nurse Registries)

Registries generally do not employ the Caregivers they represent. They act more like a staffing agency for Independent Caregivers. Many of these Caregivers do not carry health insurance, general liability coverage, a professional liability policy or Workers Compensation insurances. Should an uninsured Caregiver get hurt, injure the Client or even take/break a valuable item in the Client’s home, the Client would be responsible for the expenses resulting from the incident.

Home Care Agencies (like A Place At Home)

Agencies are required by the State of Florida to fully employ their Caregivers. In addition, all Caregivers working for an Agency must undergo a Level II background check by the State to protect our seniors. Our franchisor takes the level of protection  even further by requiring all of those insurances listed previously. Our Agency also requires initial drug testing and random drug testing throughout employment. We protect both our Clients and Caregivers from unfortunate situations where feasible.

This quick explanation will aid you in your efforts to provide the appropriate level of care for yourself or loved one. Choosing the right services and level of care you or your loved one needs early in the search will also save you time, money and hopefully keep your blood pressure at a safe level.

My Team and I are always available to you should you have any questions. Please feel free to call our offices at 407-565-7600 anytime. You can also send an email to stephen.sherbin@aplaceathome.com if you have a question, comment or need assistance.

Have A Blessed Day!

Steve Sr.

Other Resources:
Home Care Association Of Florida:
https://www.homecarefla.org/general/custom.asp?page=whatishomecare
Agency For Home Care Administration
https://ahca.myflorida.com/
The information in this article is based on personal experiences in the State of Florida. Information will vary from State to State. We strongly advise readers to learn and follow the specific guidelines and laws in their own States and municipalities. The opinions expressed here are for entertainment purposes only. They are the personal opinion of the author and not necessarily the views or opinions of A Place At Home. We do not seek to provide legal or financial advice and always strongly recommend engaging an attorney or financial advisor who specializes in the desired services. All content is the trademarked property of the author and may not be printed or reproduced without the author’s express written consent.

We Stand Greater Than Diabetes

November is American Diabetes Month. As declared by the American Diabetes Association, this year’s theme is “We Stand Greater Than Diabetes.” The association chose this theme to highlight that when we stand together to support the research efforts, legislation, and a healthy lifestyle, we can be greater than the threat of diabetes.

There are three main types of diabetes: Gestational, Type I, and Type II. Type I and II are the most common. Most of the time, patients can successfully manage their diabetes, no matter which kind. Managing this condition can be done through diet and exercise, and in some cases (always, in the case of Type I), medication.

But what is the difference between Type I diabetes and Type II diabetes?

  • Type I Diabetes: With this type, the body doesn’t produce insulin at all. This type cannot be prevented but can be addressed with medication and insulin therapy. A healthy diet and regular exercise can help manage Type I as well.
  • Type II Diabetes: Though Type II is preventable, it is the most common type. It often occurs in aging adults. Someone who has Type II diabetes can produce insulin, but their body doesn’t use it properly. One can manage this type successfully with diet and exercise, but in some cases does require medication.

While there’s no cure for diabetes, managing the disease can ensure most people diagnosed will live long, healthy lives. However, complications from the disease can arise if it is not taken care of properly. If left unchecked, this disease can lead to underlying conditions that cause further complications and stress on the body.

Some of these complications are seen frequently in older adults and can require regular medical attention and care.

When diabetes is not managed appropriately, neuropathy (a condition affecting the nerves that can cause a loss of feeling and weakness in the area affected) and poor circulation can occur. This can quickly lead to diabetic wounds and ulcers, often seen on the feet and lower extremities. Not only that, but uncontrolled diabetes can cause other, severe conditions. Examples are heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, issues with vision, and some skin conditions. And of course, some of these can require frequent hospitalizations and multiple new medications.

If you have diabetes, there are things you can do to prevent further complications.

 You must keep track of any prescribed medications or insulin therapies. Ensure you’re tracking your blood sugar regularly, if necessary. And of course, maintain a healthy diet and get as much exercise as possible. If your diabetes has already caused complications, it might be a good idea to reach out to an in-home care company that can help you manage a healthier lifestyle. Having caregivers in your home can help ensure that you’re following a proper diet, can help with medication reminders, and, in some cases, medication management. You can also have the peace of mind of having oversight to address any further complications that might emerge.

If you’re an aging adult with diabetes or know someone who could use assistance managing the disease process, reach out to us today. Our professional and trained caregivers can help.

November 2020: Recognizing Family Caregivers

November is National Family Caregiver Month. This month, we recognize the importance of those that serve as caregivers for their loved ones. 

In 1994, the Caregiver Action Network dubbed November as the month to recognize and honor those Americans that give their time and energy to care for the ones they love. This year’s theme is “Caregiving Around the Clock,” and for a good reason. 

Of the 53 million adults who identify as a family caregiver, 40% of them live with the person they care for full-time. 

Being a family caregiver is no small feat. Caring for another person can be a full-time job. Given that most Americans require two incomes to support their households, most family caregivers juggle careers, children, and life in general. Whether you’re an adult child caring for a parent, or a spouse caring for your other half, caregiver burnout is a real thing. The pandemic doesn’t make things any easier. The CDC is now recommending that family caregivers be assessed regular mental health assessments in the future. 

Currently, almost 40% of those caring for a loved one are experiencing anxiety and depression directly related to COVID-19.

Some of that anxiety is from the everyday stress of juggling life and caring full-time for another adult. But some of this stress comes from situations we’ve never seen before in our lifetimes. For example, the decision to keep a parent home versus moving them into a senior living community. While the idea of being around one’s peers and having the socialization that communities can offer, the pandemic has many people choosing to keep their loved-ones home, where it’s safer from the risk of infection. For some, their loved ones were living away from home when Covid hit the US. Now, the concern is the isolation that their loved-ones are facing while visitors are no longer allowed into facilities. 

Whatever the situation, family caregivers are facing unparalleled levels of anxiety and stress.

National Family Caregiver Month is an excellent time to remember that you can’t pour from an empty cup. If you’re a family caregiver, you must take care of yourself first, no matter how counterintuitive it may feel in the moments of everyday life. Taking care of yourself looks like getting enough sleep, exercise, and yes, even time away from the person you’re caring for. 

It can be challenging to decide what you can remove from your plate when caring for someone you love. Start with small doses. For example, managing your loved one’s medications can be a daunting task. Have an agency come in and take over this task for you. It takes an hour or less a week, but the weight off of your shoulders is invaluable. You can also hire an agency to provide respite care. Respite can give you the much-needed opportunity to step away and take time for yourself. Having someone you trust to take care of your loved one while you take care of yourself is also invaluable. 

You may feel guilty about taking time for yourself, but having the time to fill your cup will make huge strides in your quality of life. And that will positively impact the quality of time and care that you’re able to provide your parent, spouse, or other family members. If you’re a family caregiver and struggling with caregiver burnout, reach out to us. A Place At Home offers both respite care and medication management, among other services. Our priority is caring for your loved one so that you can care for yourself.  

Proud to Honor Veterans on Veterans Day and Every Day

Thank You Veterans - A Place At Home

Each year on November 11th, as a nation, we celebrate Veterans Day. This day can be confused with Memorial Day, but there is an essential distinction between the two. Memorial Day honors Veterans that gave their lives defending our country. Veterans Day celebrates the lives of all American Veterans who served during wartime.

Veterans Day was conceptualized in 1918 to celebrate the end of World War I. The day was dubbed “Armistice Day” due to the Allies and Germans calling a truce. The truce went into effect on the 11th day of the 11th month in the 11th hour. While World War I was thought to be the “war to end all wars,” World War II and the Korean War soon followed. As such, veterans and other military entities solicited to Congress to have the day changed to Veterans Day. 

Most Americans are aware that Veterans are eligible for benefits throughout their lifetimes due to their service to our country. But few people, including some Veterans themselves, know that these benefits can include in-home care. 

These benefits can cover homemaker services as well as personal care. Veterans need only speak with their team at the VA. Their physician can write an order for up to nine hours a week of care, with no out-of-pocket expense for the Veteran. As well, a benefit called Aid and Attendance exists for not only Veterans but their surviving spouses. This particular benefit does have eligibility guidelines but will pay for care either in the home or in a senior living community, up to $27,195 per year.

Despite the current pandemic, there are still ways we can honor Veterans this Veterans Day. You can donate to any of the Veteran-approved foundations found here or ask a Veteran you know to share about their time in the service. As well, you can send letters or a postcard to a local military installation. National Parks offer free admission to everyone on Veterans Day – invite a Veteran you know to explore with you (keeping safety in mind with social distancing, of course). 

At A Place At Home, we honor aging Veterans by caring for them in their homes.

Every day across the country, our caregivers provide personalized care and companionship to retired members of our country’s military. We are proud to ensure these American heroes have the care and security they need when they need it most. If you are a Veteran or know someone who is, reach out to us today. We will help you navigate the options and benefits available.