Originally published: 2024-07-11T14:30:00+00:00. Historical source article: benefits, rules, amounts and deadlines may have changed. Check the official source for current information.
Vietnam Army Veteran John Usry, 75, has faced numerous health challenges, including colon cancer, diabetes, kidney failure, heart issues and dementia. He needed help. The help of his daughter Jerusha is vital in his life and the help of VA ‘s Caregiver Support Program’s (CSP) is vital in hers.
Jerusha has been a devoted caregiver to her father since she was 17. Over the past four years, faced with her father’s numerous health issues, she sought support from CSP. During an appointment at Ann Arbor VA, they were referred to the Social Work department, which then connected them to CSP.
“This program has provided additional support and resources to ensure my father receives the comprehensive care he needs,” Jerusha said.
Caregiver and Coaching: A crucial partnership
For caregivers, seeking support is essential. Available offerings like caregiver coaching, support groups and respite care can significantly ease the burden of caregiving and enhance the quality of care provided. Additionally, prioritizing self-care and maintaining a healthy balance are crucial for sustaining long-term caregiving efforts.
“The most helpful aspects of Caregiver Health and Well-being Coaching have been the personalized support provided to manage the challenges of caregiving. The coaching sessions offered me valuable insights and techniques to maintain my own health and well-being while providing care for my father,” she continued.
Caregiver Health and Well-being Coaching focuses solely on the caregiver, empowering them to prioritize their own health and well-being. Caregivers are paired with trained coaches from local CSP teams who guide them in creating personalized health plans tailored to their values and needs. This coaching enhances caregivers’ overall physical, emotional and mental health.
The coaching is grounded in VA’s innovative Whole Health approach, which emphasizes what matters to you rather than focusing on what’s wrong. This valuable resource is available at no cost to caregivers enrolled in CSP’s Program of General Caregiver Support Services or participating in the Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers.
“These resources have been transformative in my caregiving journey, providing the support and knowledge needed to care for my father while also taking care of myself. I believe they can significantly benefit other caregivers and Veteran family members by enhancing their ability to provide care and maintain their own well-being,” Jerusha added.
CSP’s Caregiver Health and Well-being Coaching can make a significant difference in your caregiving journey. It’s an investment in your health and your ability to provide the best care possible for the Veteran.
How to contact a local Caregiver Health and Well-being Coach
Whole Health approaches have been proven to improve health outcomes and promote well-being through skill-building. CSP is here to support you on your journey to a healthier you. To get connected with your personal Caregiver Health and Well-being Coach, contact your local CSP Team by using the locator tool.
CSP promotes the health and well-being of Veterans’ caregivers through education, resources, support and services. Every VA has a CSP team that provides valuable information about resources to help caregivers stay informed and supported as they support Veterans. More information can be found on CSP’s website and by contacting local CSP teams.
Source: U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Its Veterans is an independent publication and is not affiliated with or endorsed by the U.S. government.
