Caregivers are the family members and loved ones who provide care for Veterans who are living with the effects of war, disability, chronic illness, or aging. They deserve VA’s highest level of support. VA values the sacrifices caregivers make to help Veterans remain at home. Caregivers are the critical link to ensuring Veterans have the highest quality care and optimal wellness. We want all caregivers to feel supported and have trust in VA to assist them in their caregiving roles.
I am very pleased to announce the VA Caregiver Support Line is opening today, February 1, 2011 at the Canandaigua VA Medical Center campus. This support line will serve as a resource/referral center for caregivers, Veterans and others seeking caregiver information; provide referrals to local VA Medical Center Caregiver Support Coordinators and VA/community resources; and provide emotional support. It will also be available to respond to inquiries about the new caregiver benefits associated with Public Law 111-163, Caregivers and Veterans Omnibus Health Services Act of 2010.
The Caregiver Support Line will provide a “warm” referral service to VA medical center Caregiver Support Coordinators (CSCs) for call backs to caregivers. The CSCs will provide caregivers support, information, education, and referrals to appropriate VA and community resources. Please make sure to find out the name and contact information for the CSC at your VA medical center. The CSC plays a critical role to the successful implementation of the national Caregiver Support Line and caregiver support programming at your medical centers.
Please also see VA’s updated caregiver website: www.caregiver.va.gov
We hope the above information is helpful to you or someone you know. We stand ready to help our clients and friends navigate the aging process. Please give a call if you need u