As the country’s veterans are getting older, they’re also facing their own unique set of challenges. In many cases, this is due to injuries sustained during combat or from training exercises as a part of their service. While many vets have benefited from rehabilitation after being released from the service and returning home, others may still struggle with chronic pain or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Fortunately, several senior rehabilitation centers in Griffith, IN, offer a wide range of services for veterans to help them overcome their physical and emotional obstacles both during and after military service.
Free or Low-Cost Expert Care
As a veteran, you may be eligible for free or low-cost expert care, rehabilitation therapy, and mental health care. Many senior living communities in Griffith, IN, offer these services as part of their continuing care retirement community (CCRC).
If you’re considering moving into a CCRC but have never lived in one, it’s important to understand how this type of community works. In a CCRC, residents pay an upfront fee (also known as “the buy-in”) that covers the cost of their housing and all other amenities offered at the community throughout their life—in essence; they become homeowners without having to take out loans or mortgages. The monthly fee covers all other living expenses such as food, transportation, and healthcare services like physical therapy and nursing home care should they need it. There’s also usually a lot of flexibility around pricing depending on what type of accommodations you prefer (including independent living apartments) and how many years you want your buy-in contract to last before getting out again.
Mental Health Support
Mental health problems are a big concern for many veterans. (In fact, the Department of Veterans Affairs estimates that one in five service members who served in Iraq or Afghanistan has symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder.) And with these mental health problems come higher risks for poor physical and mental health outcomes—like suicide, homelessness, arrest, and unemployment. But there’s good news: Senior rehabilitation centers can play a crucial role in helping combat these issues.
Improved Accessibility
Senior rehabilitation centers are more accessible than other senior care options. Not only do they operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week (or at least have staff on-site who can handle emergencies outside of regular business hours), but they also address the needs of people with disabilities. Whether you’re immobile or have trouble communicating, Senior rehabilitation centers make it easy for your loved ones to live independently in their home while receiving help.
If you require assistance getting around your home or community, Senior rehabilitation centers can provide that service for you as well as additional features like meal preparation and housekeeping services.
Social Activities
While social isolation is common among older adults who live alone or with family members who do not share their interests, it’s especially common among ex-military members. Veterans often lack connections after they leave the military because their friends are spread across multiple states, countries, or even continents (if they were deployed). Social activities are a great benefit for veterans in senior rehabilitation centers. Social activities are essential for mental health and help veterans feel more connected to the community, less isolated, and less stressed.
Conclusion
Veterans have a lot to offer the world, and senior rehabilitation centers can help them live their best life. By offering specialized programs designed especially for veterans, senior rehabilitation centers help veterans regain independence and find purpose in their lives again.
