Know When to Step In
It’s natural to want your veteran loved one to remain independent—but as time passes, signs may appear that indicate they need help at home. Veterans often carry unique physical and emotional challenges from their service, making their care needs different from others.
At Rivers of Hope, we specialize in in-home care for veterans, providing customized support to help them live safely and comfortably. If you’re unsure whether your veteran needs more care, here are the most common signs to watch for.
1. Declining Physical Health and Mobility
Many veterans deal with chronic pain, injuries, or limited mobility—especially if they sustained service-related conditions. You may notice:
- Trouble walking or using stairs
- Difficulty with daily tasks like dressing or preparing meals
- Frequent falls or fear of falling
Our skilled caregivers provide mobility support, assist with daily living, and help manage chronic conditions—ensuring veterans stay safe and independent at home.
2. Medication Mismanagement or Forgetfulness
With multiple prescriptions to manage, it’s easy for veterans to miss a dose—or take the wrong one. Warning signs include:
- Skipping medications
- Confusion about dosages or timing
- Forgetting to refill important prescriptions
At Rivers of Hope, our caregivers help veterans follow medication schedules, reducing risks and keeping their treatment on track.
3. Changes in Mental Health and Cognitive Function
Service-related trauma and aging can take a toll on a veteran’s mental health. Look for:
- Withdrawal from family or friends
- Anxiety, depression, or mood swings
- Forgetfulness or confusion
It’s important to consider seeking help. Rivers of Hope provides companion care and support to combat social isolation. Our caregivers offer emotional support and help veterans feel more connected and engaged with the world around them. Additionally, our skilled nursing services can provide professional mental health support and monitor changes in cognitive function.
4. Inability to Maintain Personal Hygiene and Home Cleanliness
Veterans who are unable to care for themselves might experience difficulties maintaining personal hygiene or keeping their living space clean and safe. Signs include:
- Neglecting personal grooming or hygiene
- Failure to shower, change clothes, or keep up with basic hygiene
- Living in a cluttered or unsafe environment
- Difficulty preparing meals or eating properly
Our personal care services include help with hygiene, grooming, meal preparation, and light housekeeping—creating a healthier, more comfortable environment.
5. Increased Risk of Falls or Injuries
As veterans age, they may become more prone to falls or accidents due to mobility issues, weakness, or environmental hazards. If your veteran has:
- Frequent falls or near-misses
- A fear of falling that limits their movement
- Difficulty walking or climbing stairs safely
We assess each veteran’s home for fall risks and provide physical support where needed. Our goal is to restore confidence and prevent accidents before they happen.
6. Struggles with the VA Benefits System
Many veterans are unaware of the services available to them—or find the Veteran Affairs system overwhelming. If your loved one isn’t using their benefits, they may be missing vital care options.
Rivers of Hope works directly with the VA Community Care Network, helping veterans understand their benefits and access covered home care services quickly and smoothly.
Why Early Intervention Matters
Recognizing the signs that your veteran loved one needs help at home is essential for maintaining their health, safety, and quality of life. If you see any of the signs, it may be time to explore home care options. At Rivers of Hope, we specialize in providing veterans care tailored to each individual’s needs. From skilled nursing and personal care services to companion care, we ensure that veterans receive the care they deserve in the comfort of their own homes.
Don’t wait for health issues to escalate. Early intervention can help prevent complications and provide veterans with the care they need to live independently and comfortably. Reach out to Rivers of Hope today to learn more about how we can support your loved one.
📍 Visit: www.riversofhopes.com/adult-foster-care-afc/
📞 Call: 508.857.0629 or (508) 644-1136 ext 102
📩 Email: admin@riversofhopes.com
