While November 11 is widely recognized as Veterans Day,
many people may not know that the entire month of November is both National
Veterans and National Family Caregivers Month. Both of my parents were
veterans. My father served in the Army in World War II and my mother later on
served in the U.S. Coast Guard. I encourage everyone to honor and pay respect
to those who served our country in uniform and the caregivers supporting our
valiant veterans.
There are 5.5 million military and veteran caregivers in the
U.S. providing care to approximately 15 million veterans. These hidden heroes
support their veteran loved ones with their daily needs—ranging from bathing
and dressing to paying bills and transportation and assisting with medical
tasks, providing an estimated $14 billion annually in unpaid care.
Numerous organizations have dedicated time and resources
to address the challenges veterans face today, including their care needs.
AARP supports our veterans and their family caregivers
through both the RAISE Family Caregivers Act and a partnership with the
Elizabeth Dole Foundation to create a Military
Caregiving Guide. I encourage everyone to visit AARP.org/Veterans to learn
more about how AARP is working for veterans. Here in Maine, AARP pushed for
November to be designated as Maine Family Caregivers Month – a perfect
opportunity to celebrate our veterans and the unsung heroes who care for them
right here at home.
Dr. Erica Magnus
AARP Maine Communications Volunteer
Windham
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