VeTALKX: Caregiver & Survivor Q&A with VA and Community Partners

2023-10-31T16:03:39-04:00

On November 16th the Department of Veterans Affairs and our community partners, to include Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS), American Red Cross Military Veteran Caregiver Network, Blue Star Families, and Elizabeth Dole Foundation were here to answer questions about caregiver support, survivor resources, benefits, memorial affairs, and mental wellness.

Response by SSgt Jeffrey Martin made Nov 1 at 2023 2:51 PM

2023-11-01T14:51:50-04:00

Can I select my own caregiver when I need one

Response by SFC Susan Zenda made Nov 1 at 2023 11:14 PM

2023-11-01T23:14:10-04:00

How does someone connect November 16th at 1 pm?

Response by MSG Debby ODonnell made Nov 14 at 2023 10:11 AM

2023-11-14T10:11:09-05:00

On the initial occasion, my request to serve as a caregiver for my father, a distinguished Air Force veteran, was met with refusal. May I submit another application in the event that his health starts to decline?

Response by Yvonne Bryan made Nov 14 at 2023 11:02 AM

2023-11-14T11:02:43-05:00

My husband was a Veteran and he was to ill to file a claim on the esophageal cancer.I get told I can't file a claim because he would have had to file while he was alive.We found out he had cancer 4 days after his 57th birthday and he passed a little over a month in May 2019 after finding out.They said I could have filed the claim but I had to care for my husband.VA had a home health aide come but she sat outside the whole time she was here.I sure in the hell didn't know I could have filed the claim as I wasn't even thinking about that.My focus was trying to tend to my husbands medical needs that was my priority.Why won't they allow us to file certain claims I don't think it is right.He died from the cancer from going to Iraq no doubt.He was exposed to depleted uranium,sand storms and burn pits.Then on top of that they never told my husband he had tested for TBI.He had shrapnel all over his skull.I am so angry because he was cheated by the VA.His rating could have been up to 100% but it was only at 70%.It's wrong VA screws over the Veterans and widowed spouses.I get DIC which is the same as all the others except the higher ups their wives get more.That is another thing why not make that fair as our Veterans died from service connected illnesses.What makes their wives better than the rest of us?

Response by SSG Stephen Belschner made Nov 14 at 2023 1:47 PM

2023-11-14T13:47:02-05:00

i am in a wheel chair and not walking, i've been trying to get my best friend and room mate to get approved as my care giver for about 3-4 years. they keep deigning me the help i need. i feel i've been disrespected and abused from the care giver progem. please advise and help me. thank you.

Response by SGT Donald Cain made Nov 14 at 2023 3:58 PM

2023-11-14T15:58:44-05:00

Why is filing for travel pay for my disabled vet so hard? When the VA had the checkin kiosk, it was super easy to checkin and file for travel pay.

Response by Diana Inglis made Nov 14 at 2023 6:47 PM

2023-11-14T18:47:02-05:00

is there a link to participate on Thursday's event? Can't seem to sign up for RallyPoint because I'm the widow of a veteran and there is no option for this status to join RallyPoint. Please advise

Response by Charlotte Lawson made Nov 14 at 2023 9:24 PM

2023-11-14T21:24:46-05:00

My USAF RETIRED husband passed 1/3/22. He was awarded the Bronize Star in Vietnam. Tet Offensive. He was presented with the medals which we have. However, I want a Bronze Star on his headstone. I have written to get it but they say there is no record of it being given to him. Where can I go to next. I know a lot of records have been lost and buildings burned down. He really deserves this honor. A Korea/Vietnam vet. 21 years of service and a simple medal they can't find. It's very discouraging.

Response by SSG Stephen Belschner made Nov 15 at 2023 8:57 AM

2023-11-15T08:57:26-05:00

i'm a vietnam veteran and unable to walk. i'm in a wheel chair and am having trouble living a normal life. i need help with everyday chores, like taking a shower, cooking my food, getting dressed and undress. i've been trying to get my best friend and roommate to get approved. the caregiver program keep turning me down. i have bad health issues, arthritis, kidney issues, pain in lower back and right hip. i'm hoping you can help me. thank you

Response by Kenya Atkins made Nov 15 at 2023 10:28 AM

2023-11-15T10:28:51-05:00

My dad died and my mom is eligible for his pension however, the VA stopped sending it and my mom lost her house and went homeless, She an elderly disabled senior citizen and we need assistance with getting her pension for aid and attendance

Response by G J made Nov 15 at 2023 2:31 PM

2023-11-15T14:31:41-05:00

I was a caregiver and participant in the CSP. When my spouse deceased, I was disappointed to learn that there were no viable grief support opportunities within the VA structure. I am curious as to what plans the VA has to implement worthwhile programs for “caregivers to survivors” that are commensurate with the level and duration necessary for healing.

Response by G J made Nov 15 at 2023 2:38 PM

2023-11-15T14:38:59-05:00

My question is for Leah Christensen:
I was accepted into the CSP during the last months of my spouse’s life. I was pleased to see there were resources, information, and support finally available to me. After having been a caregiver for many years prior, I wondered why this program was not available to ALL caregivers? After all, joining a zoom call or having access to workshops and information on the basics of caregiving and self-care through the process didn’t seem like something that should be a secret to everyone. Does the VA have plans to allow ALL caregivers to participate? If not, why not? What does it really cost for another caregiver so “sit in” on a meeting?! Although I am grateful for the program, quite frankly I could have used the information at the start of the caregiving journey and am disappointed for my fellow caregivers that remain unsupported when they need it the most.

Response by SSG Dalia Cox made Nov 15 at 2023 7:10 PM

2023-11-15T19:10:43-05:00

My question is to Leah Christensen.
I'm a Post 9-11 legacy participant in the caregiver program. I'm part of the 90% of legacy veterans whose eligibility will end in 2025. I'm a Combat wounded veteran of Iraq and Afghanistan.
My question is, why did the VA caregiver program decide that those of us in the legacy program required a review to establish eligibility. I'm 100% P&T. 00 % for PTSD by itself. A Traumatic Brain Injury, as well as more than 25 surgeries on both legs and upper body. Can you explain how mental health was not included in the eligibility questionares.

Response by SGT Steven P made Nov 15 at 2023 8:56 PM

2023-11-15T20:56:11-05:00

Why does this program keep trying to mess with veterans? 100% disabled PT on homebound status, and 2 days ago they call to make a in person appointment, they give us one of 2 days as an option before thanks giving, how do people screw up so much then put it on the veteran? stop saying you care if you don't its a joke

Response by Elaine Ketcham made Nov 15 at 2023 11:17 PM

2023-11-15T23:17:34-05:00

My husband passed away in 2020 soon after sending in a claim for additional disability along with Nexus letter and many documents. He was already rated at 60% disabled and receiving care at the VA hospital for the condition. I never received anything back from VA regarding that claim, so I guess it died when he did? Now, I have heard about the PACT act and there are several presumptive illnesses for Vietnam Veterans exposed to agent orange, from which he suffered as well, though they might or might not have increased his % rating had he lived. I do receive DIC benefits. Is there any reason for me to file a claim with required medical records regarding these newer presumptive illness’? If it increased his rating, he passed away well before the PACT Act so I don’t know. Someday the final claim he submitted for a serious lung condition could become a presumptive condition, but because the VA never responded,I guess that won’t change anything. Thank you for considering my questions.

Response by Linda Bajorek made Nov 15 at 2023 11:20 PM

2023-11-15T23:20:41-05:00

I am a widow of a Vietnam Vetran who passed away in 2007 with 100 % disability through the VA. I have been trying to get my property taxes exempt since this started. I keep getting denied, yet I am told I have the paperwork that says I can get them exempt. Can someone please help.
Thank you, Linda B.

Response by A1C Jade Ronk made Nov 15 at 2023 11:24 PM

2023-11-15T23:24:20-05:00

I appreciate the opportunity to ask questions. My questions are for Leah. My loved one has been in the caregivers program for over a decade and is 90% service connected. About 3 year ago he got cancer and his health continues to decline. At this time his mom is listed as his primary caregiver. When he went to change it to add me because he was grandfathered in they said he would lose his benefits. Unfortunately his mom has been unable to care for him for some time which then falls on myself. I am also a service connected disabled veteran. If she passes away soon, then he will lose his eligibility. Has there been consideration for scenarios such as this? Is there a waiver or process to change a caregiver without losing benefits? I do not feel comfortable sharing more details as to why he needs care in this space but due to the nature of disabilities has to have a caregiver. Are the requirements going to be updated?

Response by SSgt Christie Martin made Nov 16 at 2023 12:06 AM

2023-11-16T00:06:54-05:00

My question is unique. I’m a caregiver and a veteran, service-connected. I care for my quadriplegic spouse. She is not a veteran. Are there resources for me? Thanks!

Response by Sgt Dexter Emmanuel made Nov 16 at 2023 12:48 AM

2023-11-16T00:48:16-05:00

Can Caregiver's get I.D. cards

Response by Gentry Howard made Nov 16 at 2023 1:59 AM

2023-11-16T01:59:24-05:00

I am in the Caregiver support program, caring for my father who is 100% service connected. I am interested in the CHAMPS VA health care coverage extended to caregivers. My question is, when the Veteran passes away, does a caregiver continue to qualify for CHAMPS VA coverage, and do any of the costs or benefits change once the Veteran passes?z

Response by SGT Bill Braniff made Nov 16 at 2023 9:29 AM

2023-11-16T09:29:05-05:00

My wife passed away on October 29, 2023. I had been her caregiver for about 19 months. I am a 79 year old disabled Veteran who now lives alone with my two dogs and a cat. Is there anywhere I can go for some kind of support. I have a lot of disabilit5ies, diabetes PTSD neuropathy, high blood pressure, I see an Onco0logist every four months, and more. Does th4e VA have a way of checking on me to make sure I am okay. It would cause me pain to have my pets maybe die of starvation if I passed.. I am still able to get around, drive go shopping etc, though sometimes it is difficult. Just checking in case I get worse and cannot get around so good.

Response by A1C Kenzie Sailors made Nov 16 at 2023 9:59 AM

2023-11-16T09:59:37-05:00

Can someone tell me what exactly the caregiver needs to do in order to be approved?

Response by Sgt Ed McEvoy made Nov 16 at 2023 12:46 PM

2023-11-16T12:46:02-05:00

Hello, I am Ed with VA’s Vet Center program. Vet Centers have been proudly providing counseling, referral, and community engagement services to Veterans, service members, including members of the National Guard and Reserve, and their families since 1979.

Vet Centers offer community based counseling services, community engagement, and referral services to eligible Veterans,service members, their families and caregivers (when it is found to aid in the readjustment or transition of the Veteran or service member).

If you are interested in Vet Center services, you can reach us 24/7 by calling the Vet Center Call Center at [login to see] or find us online at http://www.vetcenter.va.gov.

I am also happy to help link you with your local Vet Center.

VA.gov | Veterans Affairs

Apply for and manage the VA benefits and services you’ve earned as a Veteran, Servicemember, or family member—like health care, disability, education, and more.

Response by Sgt Christopher Vidaurre made Nov 16 at 2023 1:02 PM

2023-11-16T13:02:11-05:00

Hello All,
My name is Christopher Vidaurre, I am the Senior Program Manager at the George W. Bush Institute, and I am here on behalf of the Veterans Wellness Alliance to share “Check-In”. Check-In is a first-of-its-kind network that unites peer-led organizations and mental and brain health service providers to connect veterans, caregivers, survivors and their families with high-quality care for mental and brain health services at no cost.
Please go to veterancheckin.org and fill out our short form to get connected to care. Once you fill out the form within in 72 business hours our Care Coordinator will reach out to you and find the most appropriate care and get you connected. If you have any other questions, please feel free to ask. Thank you.

https://www.veterancheckin.org

Check In

Connecting veterans with the support and services they need to live happier, healthier, more successful lives-and to make sure veterans are treated like people, not case numbers, every step of the care journey.

Response by PO3 Matthew "DOC" Campbell made Nov 16 at 2023 1:02 PM

2023-11-16T13:02:46-05:00

Thank everyone for being here today! Please feel free to drop your questions below and the team of VA and Community Partners will be here to respond. Again thank you for your time!

Response by TSgt Kyle Wright made Nov 16 at 2023 1:06 PM

2023-11-16T13:06:41-05:00

I am a veteran with a 90% disability rating. My wife is an also a veteran with no disability rating. Here’s the paradox. My wife is legally blind, has state 4 cancer, and requires the use of a walker for mobility. She doesn’t qualify for caregiver support. I am the caregiver, but because she has no disability rating she can’t get caregiver support. I, being disabled qualify for caregiver support, but I am the caregiver. I am also taking care of a daughter, age 39 who is mentally impaired but functional, as well as a grandson, age 29, with mild Aspergers. What caregiver support if any do my wife and I qualify for?

Response by Melissa Comeau made Nov 16 at 2023 1:14 PM

2023-11-16T13:14:09-05:00

Greetings, My name is Melissa Comeau and I am the spouse and caregiver to a combat wounded Marine. I am also the Director of the Military and Veteran Caregiver Network at the American Red Cross. We serve caregivers of all eras with peer support services and resources. We also serve Veterans that are caregivers. You are welcome to join us at https://www.redcross.org/get-help/military-families/services-for-veterans/military-veteran-caregiver-network.html

Military and Veteran Caregiver Network

The Military Veteran Caregiver Network provides our nation’s pre- and post-9/11-era military and veteran caregivers with peer support.

Response by Cpl Gregory Kaput made Nov 16 at 2023 1:17 PM

2023-11-16T13:17:07-05:00

My question is for Major Carroll. My brother-in-law was a navy Vietnam veteran that was exposed to agent orange and was receiving a VA benefit. HE passed away Sep. 18 2023. Will his spouse continue to receive a benefit from the VA?

Response by Marilyn Taylor made Nov 16 at 2023 1:18 PM

2023-11-16T13:18:40-05:00

I have been the caregiver for my husband for several years. As a spouse am I eligible for caregiver benefits? What are the qualifications?

Response by Jeanette Bayer made Nov 16 at 2023 1:35 PM

2023-11-16T13:35:54-05:00

I, too, need to know what resources will be available for me when my terminally I’ll vet husband passes away.

Response by Sandra LeBlanc-Boland made Nov 16 at 2023 1:54 PM

2023-11-16T13:54:48-05:00

Question for Leah: why aren’t the inability to perform ISDLs considered eligible criteria for the veteran in order for family member to be accepted into the Family Caregiver Program? ISDLs being instrumental activities if daily living: management of finances, transportation, meals, communication and medications. Thank you.