At Summerset Assisted Living Community, we are thankful.
We’re thankful for so much but we’re most thankful that we can offer a solution to families seeking a ‘home away from home’. And, November is the time of year when we can fully express it to our friends and families.
Thanksgiving is a great day to show gratitude but since it is also National Veterans and Military Families Month, we will dedicate this blog to them—our fearless heroes who have served our country and their families.
Did You Know? There are Millions of Living Veterans
According to the latest U.S. Census, there are more than 21.3 million veterans living in the United States (690, 208 of those live in Georgia). And, believe it or not, roughly 35% of our veterans are 65 and older.
To give more perspective on needs of our veteran population, as of 2011, there were 1.7 million World War II veterans in need of caregiving assistance. With numbers like these and a projected increase in the aging veteran population, there are a few things to keep in mind when it comes to managing their elder care needs.
Health and Nutrition Management is a Growing Concern
Aging veterans often suffer from malnutrition. In fact,
15% of veterans in home-based care programs are malnourished. Why? In most cases, malnutrition goes undiagnosed due to a lack of screenings. When this lack of nutrition leads to unintended weight loss, the elderly veteran is at a higher risk of falls, other health issues and higher health care costs. Education and consistent nutrition care are two strategies to combat this issue. At communities like Summerset, providing nutrition management for all guests is an important part of our residents’ experience.
There’s an Information Gap
Veterans have access to aid that assists them with healthcare costs as they age but many of them and their caregivers are unaware of these programs.
Veterans Aid and Attendance (A&A) Pension Benefits are available to veterans and surviving spouses in need of assisted care in assisted living communities. A veteran is eligible for up to $1,794 per month, while a surviving spouse is eligible for up to $1,153 per month. A veteran with a spouse is eligible for up to $2,127 per month and a veteran with a sick spouse is eligible for up to $1,410 per month.
In addition, other common benefits and health care programs that elderly veterans may be entitled to include Respite Care and Adult Day Health Care. At Summerset, both programs provide companionship, recreation, nutritious meals and medical assistance.
Are You a Loved One Caring for a Veteran?
Summerset Assisted Living Community manages the health and well-being of all guests on an individual basis. Each guest is provided access to a nutritious meal plan, social activities, medical treatment and transportation to doctor’s visits as often as they need. Our staff prides itself on caring for each individual and their needs.
At Summerset, regardless of level of care, we make it our mission to make each resident feel that they are at a home away from home when they come through our doors. If you have any questions about our assisted living program or services, give us a call at 470-231-2357 or come take a tour. You can also visit our website to learn more about Summerset’s Assisted Living Program. Don’t forget to follow us on social media and sign up for our blog to stay up to date.
