VA benefit gets cost of living increase...

The following is courtesy of Home Helpers of Lake Norman & Central NC. Visit our website at www.lknhomecare.com , or call us at 704.909.7958

 After several years with no annual increases, Congress recently passed a bill to raise the pension for eligible veterans and surviving spouses for the VA Aide & Attendance benefit.  Beginning January 2012, the 3.6% increase results in new monthly pension amounts of: 

1. Married Veteran- $2,020  
2. Single Veteran- $1,704 
3. Surviving Spouse - $1,094

 There are 3 key elegibility requirements for A&A benefits.  These are:
 (1)  The veteran must have served in active military for 90 or more consecutive days, with 1 day during a period of wartime as defined by the Veterans Administration.
 (2)  The veteran must have been discharged under anything other than dishonorable conditions.
 (3)  The veteran must be over the age of 65 or disabled.

The application can be daunting, but this is a benefit that every veteran should take advantage of. If you're eligible for this benefit, or just have questions about how to get started, feel free to call our office.  We'll be glad to help get you started.

Care for the caregiver...

The following is courtesy of Home Helpers of Lake Norman & Central NC. Visit our website at www.lknhomecare.com , or call us at 704.909.7958

 Despite the best of intentions, family care-giving can quickly become a difficult and overwhelming task. Known as the “Sandwich Generation,” millions of Americans are understandably feeling the strain of caring for aging parents and raising families, all while managing demanding careers and tending to household duties.
 Although it may seem selfish at first, your top priority as a family caregiver should always be yourself! You must be at your best in order to provide your loved ones the quality care and attention they deserve. The good news is there are several resources and support groups available to provide respite care and relieve much of this undue stress, including:
• http://www.caregiving.org/ : Connects you with other family caregivers and provides access to support groups and organizations.
• http://www.lknhomecare.com/ : Provides easy access to caregiver tips and resources, pertinent information and a national network of compassionate, qualified caregivers.
  We know from personal experience that family caregiving can be a much more enjoyable experience once you recognize and accept there are limits to what you can accomplish alone. Our own families have cared for at least two parents who were facing terminal illnesses. While we had quite a bit of family to help provide support, we hired supplemental care as well. As a result, we were less stressed and able to enjoy precious time with our loved ones.
 When all is said and done, you want to cherish fond memories of spending quality time with your loved ones, not the strain and tension it caused.
 Remember, it’s okay to ask for help. In fact, it’s encouraged.