How to Afford Home Care in Mesa, AZ for Veterans or a Surviving Spouse

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The VA Aid and Attendance Pension Benefit is one way for veterans or their surviving spouses to afford in home care. Before applying for the VA Aid and Attendance Pension Benefit for a Veteran or Surviving Spouse – Get Organized! Make sure you have all of your paperwork in order and copies of all important documents PRIOR to filing. More importantly GET HELP. See notes below.

See links to important documents at the bottom of this article.

Step 1:

First, the Veteran must have certified copies of his or her discharge papers. If the Veteran has a copy of his or her DD 214, take it to a local Veteran’s office where they will make certified copies at no charge. If there is no copy available, contact the VA to get a copy.

Step 2:

Second, the Veteran must have a medical reason for needing home care. They must be considered homebound. The medical reason does not have to be a serious or life-threatening condition. The home care agency will have a doctor’s report to be completed by the Veteran’s doctor. A copy of this report must be filed along with the application.

Step 3:

Third, to qualify financially, an applicant must have on average less than $80,000 in assets, excluding their home and vehicles.

Step 4:

Fourth, the Veteran must actually be receiving home care services at the time of application. The application process takes from three to six months and is retroactive to first day of the month the application was originally filed. For this reason, make sure your Veteran has the funds to cover the entire cost of home care for at least the first six months. Once the application is processed, the Veteran will receive a lump sum check for the retroactive benefit, then a monthly benefit check from that time on.

Important Documents for the VA Aid and Attendance Pension Benefit

• Standard Form 180 – Requesting Military Records

• Use VA Form 21-526 to apply for compensation and/or pension benefits.

• VA Form 21-534 to apply for benefits as a surviving spouse.

• Nursing Home Status Statement

• Physicians Statement for Need for Regular Aid and Attendance

• AUTHORIZATION TO DISCLOSE PERSONAL INFORMATION TO A THIRD PARTY

• Use VA Form 21-601 to apply for accrued benefits due the beneficiary but not paid prior to death.

The veteran must have served during a period of war as defined by the VA.

• Indian Wars: January 1, 1817, through December 31, 1898. The veteran must have served thirty days or more, or for the duration of such Indian War. Service must have been with the U.S. forces against Indian tribes or nations.

• Spanish-American War: April 21, 1898, through July 4, 1902, including the Philippine Insurrection and the Boxer Rebellion. Also included are those individuals engaged in the Moro Province hostilities through July 15, 1903.

• Mexican Border War: May 9, 1916, through April 5, 1917. The veteran must have served for one day or more in Mexico, on the borders thereof, or in the waters adjacent thereto.

• World War I: April 6, 1917, through November 11, 1918, extended to April 1, 1920, for those who served in the Soviet Union. Service after November 11, 1918, through July 2, 1921, qualifies for benefits purposes if active duty was performed for any period during the basic World War I period.

• World War II: December 7, 1941, through December 31, 1946, extended to July 25, 1947, where continuous with active duty on or before December 31, 1946.

• Korean Conflict: June 27, 1950, through January 31, 1955.

• Vietnam Era: August 5, 1964, through May 7, 1975.90 However, February 28, 1961, through May 7,1975, for a veteran who served in the Republic of Vietnam during that period.

• Persian Gulf War: August 2, 1990, through a date to be prescribed by Presidential proclamation or law.

• Congress has not enacted legislation that would make the periods covering the 1983-1984 Lebanon crisis or the invasions of Grenada and Panama wartime service.

Resource: http://www.HelpforAgingVeterans.com

When researching options for home care agencies in Mesa, AZ call us at (480) 535-6800. Home care counselors at Endeavor Home Care are available to talk with you about your home care needs including how to reduce caregiver stress while providing better, affordable care. We are an elder care agency providing home care in Mesa, AZ.

Senior Care in Scottsdale, AZ: Have You Had Your Flu Shot? It’s TIME!

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If you are age 65 or older it is extremely important that you do not skip getting your flu shot. It is simple, readily available, and affordable. Most importantly it can be lifesaving.

The Most Common Causes of Death in the U.S.

Influenza and Pneumococcal are the most common cause of death from diseases that could have been stopped by a vaccine within the United States. Over 20,000 people in America die from flu epidemics each year. Over 100,000 are at least hospitalized. Adults diagnosed with diabetes and seniors over 65 are the most likely to be victims. The saddest part is that it can all be avoided by being sure to get a influenza shot each year.

Why is the Flu so Dangerous?

There are a few unavoidable reasons why the flu is so dangerous to seniors. The immune system weakens with age. This makes it much easier to catch the flu virus. Once sick, many of the elderly cannot care for themselves properly, especially if they live alone. While sick, many everyday tasks can feel impossible to them. They can become sicker and even dehydrated as a result of having the flu. Add to that the fact that most of them already have life threatening health issues that can become more serious when the flu virus infects their body.

All of this pain and suffering due to the influenza virus is so senseless in many cases. Shots are free under Medicare and readily available from health care providers. Many times clinics are set up at local drug stores. Anyone 65 or older, in nursing or assisted living facilities, those with heart problems, kidney disease, or lung problems need to speak to their health care providers about getting vaccinated.

Remind Your Loved Ones

If you are a senior over 65 or have a loved one that is, encourage them to go out there and get a flu vaccine. Call your doctor or local hospital for a list of times and locations where the influenza vaccine is being offered. There is virtually no risks involved, so don’t worry. It is a myth that you can catch the flu from the shot, due to the fact that it is created using the virus that has already been killed.

The risk of illness and death is much higher when seniors do NOT receive their annual flu shots. Get yours today!

When researching options for senior care agencies in Scottsdale, AZ call us at (480) 535-6800. Home care counselors at Endeavor Home Care are available to talk with you about your senior care needs including how to reduce caregiver stress while providing better, affordable care. We are an elder care agency providing senior care in Scottsdale, AZ.

Senior Care and Depression in Phoenix, AZ: Watch for the Signs and Symptoms in Your Aging Loved One

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October has been designated as National Depression Awareness Month. This is the time of year when summer gives way to fall, with leaves changing colors and sometimes moods changing as well. Less sunlight in the fall and winter months usher in feelings of depression for too many people, especially seniors.

National Depression Awareness Month was created to help raise awareness about the life-altering effects of depression. Many people are still not familiar with the symptoms of depression in themselves or others.

Seniors and Depression

Getting older presents many challenges and changes. Things like the death of a loved one, retirement, medical problems, and increased isolation can cause depression. This mood disorder is not a normal condition of aging. It can rob you of your enjoyment of life, sapping your energy and mood. It can also make you have trouble sleeping or eating.

Fortunately, there are many ways to overcome depression, regardless of what challenges you may be facing. Many, many people have suffered from depression and overcome it. Recognizing the symptoms is the first step towards getting back to a happy and fulfilled life.

Depression Symptoms

The symptoms of depression can vary from person to person, but there are some general ones to be aware of. Keep in mind that a given person may suffer from any or all of these symptoms at the same time.

* Persistent sad or empty mood

* Feelings of hopelessness, helplessness, worthlessness, or guilt

* Loss of energy or interest in normal activities

* Difficulty sleeping or concentrating

* Irritability, crying spells, anxiety or panic attacks

* Thoughts of suicide

* Pain that does not respond to treatment

One thing to consider is that depression is a side effect of a number of widely prescribed drugs. If you are taking multiple prescription drugs, the risk increases.

A number of commonly prescribed drugs have been known to cause depression, including blood pressure medication, sleeping pills, beta-blockers, calcium-channel blockers, Parkinson’s medication, ulcer medication, steroids, and estrogen among others.

It can be difficult to sort out which medication is potentially causing your depression, but one tip-off is if you begin to experience depression symptoms soon after starting a new medication. If this should happen to you, report it to your doctor right away. He might be able to lower the dosage or find an alternate medication.

If you suspect you, a family member, or friend is suffering from depression, Senior Care services can help by providing companionship and socialization for seniors who otherwise might feel lonely during the day.

When researching options for senior care agencies in Phoenix AZ, call us at (480) 535-6800. Home care counselors at Endeavor Home Care are available to talk with you about your senior care needs including how to reduce caregiver stress while providing better, affordable care. We are an elder care agency providing senior care in Phoenix AZ.

Remind Your Favorite Senior to Take Care of Her Health: October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month in Tucson, AZ

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One of the most important things a woman should be sure to include in her medical care is breast cancer prevention. That’s why October is designated as National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, when doctors, government agencies and organizations collaborate to raise awareness about cancer and promote access to health care for both young women and seniors.

History

The awareness month was initiated more than 25 years ago. The campaign has been involved in keeping the issue in the public’s eye, promoting and tracking research and empowering women to learn all they can about this important health care issue. Partners in the mission include major health organizations, such as American Cancer Society, American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, CancerCare, National Medical Association and many more.

Early Intervention

This is a good time to remind women of the importance of doing their own breast check each month and of getting mammograms when appropriate. The National Cancer Institute recommends women 40 and older getting a mammogram every one to two years. Those with a higher risk of the cancer because of family history or other genetic risks are advised to ask their doctors about starting mammograms earlier.

Advocacy

The month is often recognized in some communities by fundraisers, races and other gatherings as a way to promote awareness and raise donations for research or local cancer care. What’s more, many merchants participate in the Pink Ribbon Campaign, selling products with the pink ribbon logo and donating a portion of the profit to cancer research.

About The Disease

Experts say one in eight women will be diagnosed with the cancer in her lifetime. The good news is that with early diagnosis and improved treatment options from ongoing research, many cancer patients are living longer or beating the disease altogether.

Local Events

To find out about events marking the month in your community, contact your local office of the American Cancer Society or check the, Making Strides Against Breast Cancer website, where you can search by location and date. If your community is not planning an activity, see how you can get involved to organize a fundraiser and raise awareness in your area.

Finally, remember that cancer awareness and care is something that should be ongoing throughout the year. Remind seniors in your community about how early diagnosis can make all the difference.

When researching options for senior care agencies in Tucson AZ, call us at (480) 535-6800. Home care counselors at Endeavor Home Care are available to talk with you about your senior care needs including how to reduce caregiver stress while providing better, affordable care. We are an elder care agency providing senior care in Tucson, AZ.

Are You a Family Caregiver in Gilbert, AZ? This Month Engage With Seniors and Learn More About Your Family History

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Seniors have a wealth of memories and family history that they are always eager to share. October is National Family History month! This is an ideal time for family caregivers to devote some extra time to listening to elderly family members relive treasured moments from their past and to share stories that need to be passed to the next generation.

There are various ways to encourage seniors to share information regarding the family history. As a caregiver, you could draw a picture of a large tree on a piece of poster board. Cut some leaf shapes out of construction paper. Write family member’s names on the leaves. Get the person you are caring for to help you place names in appropriate places to construct a family tree.

You could step aside from your role as caregiver and assume the role of interviewer. Get your family member to tell you stories from their past. Write them down and compile them into a family memory book.

Family recipes are true treasures. If the person you are caring for used to be the one who had the best family dinners or made the best cake or cookies, get them to share their recipes with you. You can compile these and make a family recipe book. You might even want to make several copies and give them as gifts to family and friends.

Serving as caregiver to a family member can sometimes seem overwhelming. National Family History month is the perfect time to set aside some time to simply sit with the person you are caring for and browse through family photos. Quite often, the responsibilities of caregivers tend to consume so much time that simple pleasures often get ignored. Setting aside some time to look at family photos and hear the stories that accompany them can be a pleasant diversion from your usual caregiver duties.

Arrange for as many family members as possible to gather together and share stories about their childhood. Be sure to include the young children in this event. This is a wonderful way for them to learn about how things used to be.

Sometime during the month of October, set aside a day to celebrate the senior members of the family. If possible, take the family to revisit a place that has some significance to your family history.

When researching options for caregiver agencies in Gilbert AZ, call us at (480) 535-6800. Home care counselors at Endeavor Home Care are available to talk with you about your in home care needs including how to reduce caregiver stress while providing better, affordable care. We are an elder care agency providing caregivers in Gilbert, AZ.

Senior Care in Chandler, AZ: World Heart Day Sept 29, 2012Teaches Us to Be Aware of Stroke and Heart Disease

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The risk of developing heart disease or stroke is higher for individuals suffering from an unhealthy weight, harmful diet and a lack of physical activity. It also increases for tobacco users and those with high stress levels. Heart attacks do not always happen suddenly and may take some time for pain and discomfort to be recognized as a symptom. Chest pain is often the most associated symptom. Other symptoms may include discomfort in certain areas of the body, shortness of breath, nausea, vomiting and cold sweats. Although men and women typically experience similar symptoms, women are more likely to suffer from back pain, shortness of breath and nausea. The warning signs for a stroke may be more apparent. It can include numbness, confusion, severe headache, dizziness and a sudden onset of coordination problems.

The World Heart Federation was created to raise awareness among everybody across about these deadly diseases. This organization is an advocate for healthy living and developed the World Heart Day to promote health and wellness across the globe. Created in 2000, the World Heart Day is observed on September 29 of each year and features concerts, sporting events, national runs and walks, public discussions and health screenings.

World Heart Day 2012 focuses on the importance of understanding heart disease in women and children. The intention is to successfully raise awareness among women and children as well as their loved ones and encourage them to lead healthier lifestyles to reduce the chances of developing cardiovascular disease (CVD). Children are often at risk because of their inability to make certain heart-healthy decisions concerning their environment and diet. Women are more likely to be the educator and enforcer within a household so it is important that they are well-informed to have the ability to pass on the knowledge they acquire to their loved ones.

Many of the individuals and volunteers of the World Heart Federation have been affected by CVD and are willing to share their experiences with others. Reaching out to others and sharing the knowledge of acquiring a heart-friendly lifestyle is the primary goal of World Heart Day. Addressing important issues such as the dangers of high blood pressure and the regular use of tobacco can help spread awareness to others and bring people together to lower the numbers of those who may become affected by deadly diseases such as heart disease and stroke.

When researching options for senior care agencies in Chandler AZ, call us at (480) 535-6800. Home care counselors at Endeavor Home Care are available to talk with you about your senior care needs including how to reduce caregiver stress while providing better, affordable care. We are an elder care agency providing senior care in Chandler, AZ.

How Caregivers in Sun City West, AZ Can Help Parents Deal With Psoriasis

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Psoriasis is a skin condition that can occur in varying degrees in some people. It causes an overgrowth of cells on the body. This disorder can be an annoyance, or it can cause more serious problems. Caregivers can help seniors manage symptom by understanding the causes and different forms of treatment.

How It Forms

Psoriasis is an autoimmune disorder that can be a chronic problem for those affected with it. The cells of our body are constantly renewing themselves. However, sometimes the process of cell renewal accelerates and a thick layer of white or silvery cells develop in patches on the skin. It can occur anywhere on the body. This disorder can occur along with other diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease, diabetes and heart disease. Treatment of the skin conditions must be done in tandem with treatments for the other illnesses. Thirty percent of those with symptoms will develop psoriatic arthritis, a condition that causes swelling, soreness and stiffness of joints.

Causes

The onset of the disorder has a genetic component. Researchers believe that up to 10 percent of the population may have the genes that make them susceptible to this disease. Then, certain triggers must occur for the overgrowth of cells to begin. Stress, injury to the skin, medications, allergies and diet are implicated in the onset of symptoms.

Topical Treatments

Topical corticosteroid medications are applied to the skin to relieve inflammation and suppress the immune reaction. Other types of topical creams are often used, such as vitamin D creams, retinoid compounds, Anthralin, salicylic acid compounds, calcium inhibitors or coal tars.

Light Therapy

Light therapy can also be applied to affected areas to encourage healing and inhibit immune system reactions. Either natural or artificial light is used. UVA and UVB light is often used in combination with medications.

Other Medications

Methotrexate, a powerful drug used to treat cancer, can be used to treat severe cases. Cyclosporine helps to suppress the immune system that causes the overgrowth of cells. Biologic drugs can also be infused into the body to suppress the immune reaction.

Managing Psoriasis in Seniors

Caregivers helping aging parents to deal with symptoms can help by seeing that the senior bathes regularly to remove excess skin cells, moisturizes affected areas and exposes the skin to small amounts of sunlight. Keeping the senior on a healthy diet with no alcohol and no smoking can also help to control the condition.

When researching options for caregiver agencies in Sun City West AZ, call us at (480) 535-6800. Home care counselors at Endeavor Home Care are available to talk with you about your in home care needs including how to reduce caregiver stress while providing better, affordable care. We are an elder care agency providing caregivers in Sun City West, AZ.

Video: How Do People Pay for Home Care in Phoenix AZ?

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Video: How Do People Pay for Home Care in Phoenix AZ?

Non-Medical Home Care in Sun City, AZ- What a Non-Medical Companion Can and Cannot Do in the Home.

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With the aging population and busy work schedules, it is likely that more seniors will require care services in the coming years. Home care allows elders to stay in their own home environment while still getting additional help with daily tasks. Non-medical care may be needed even when the senior is relatively healthy and without medical issues. Contact us at 480-498-2324 for help at home for senior loved ones.

What Is Non-Medical Home Care?

Non-medical home care encompasses a variety of daily tasks that can be challenging for seniors in their own homes. Non-medical care may mean help with getting to the bathroom, dressing, preparing food, reminding about medication, transporting them to appointments, light cleaning and other household tasks. Often, non-medical care can mean interacting with the senior on a meaningful level to help keep them alert and engaged in activities. The non-medical caregiver may play cards with the senior, engage them in conversation on favorite subjects and be a companion for shopping trips. Non-medical care helps to enrich the home environment and social circle of the elder.

What Caregivers Can’t Do

Non-medical caregivers do not provide any medical procedures for clients. They cannot administer medications, give injections for insulin or other drugs and cannot monitor vital signs, such as heart rate, blood pressure, blood sugar or other physical indicators. They cannot engage in any services that would be considered clinical or invasive. Strict legal requirements determine the limitations of medical and non-medical home caregivers.

How Non-Medical Home Care Helps

Primarily, the non-medical caregiver ensures that the normal physical care of the elderly person is consistent and adequate for his needs. A non-medical caregiver provides regular companionship for the elder and a ways to monitor the condition of the elder on a regular basis, outside of his regular medical care. Non-medical care companies generally provide updates on the status of the elder’s mental, social and physical condition so that family members can take action when needed. Non-medical caregivers can provide important social and mental stimulation that helps to keep seniors alert. A non-medical helper can also provide respite for other family caregivers so that they can spend some time on themselves.

Matching Caregivers With Seniors

Because non-medical senior home care companions come into the home and have close interaction with the elder, it is important to find a good mix of personalities. A good non-medical home care agency will work to find the right person to make your elder family member feel comfortable and secure.

When researching options for Non-Medical Senior Home Care agencies in Sun City AZ, call us at (480) 535-6800. Home care counselors at Endeavor Home Care are available to talk with you about your Non-Medical Home Care needs including how to reduce caregiver stress while providing better, affordable care. We are an elder care agency providing Non-Medical Home Care in Sun City, AZ.