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 vet. 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 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.