MORE SUPPORT FOR VETERAN CAREGIVERS

About 17% of all caregivers in this country care for veterans. There are 5.5 million caregivers of veterans or current members of the military. Of these 68% consider their situation highly stressful. According to the Caregivers and Veterans Omnibus Health Services Act of 2010, legislation has approved for the VA to implement services for those caring for veterans or members of the military seriously injured post-9/11.  These services include paying qualifying family caregivers the amount that a home health aide would cost. This Act has been describes as "the most comprehensive program for caregivers in the country".  Only about 22,000 out of  1.1 million families are receiving assistance.  It is those faced with the most severe physical injuries.  For right now the eligibility criteria are limiting.  The Elizabeth Dole Foundation is partnering with the Veterans Association to reach more families.  In order to do this it will take Congress to change the existing criteria.