VA Caregivers Support Line Marks First Anniversary
Feb. 1 marked the one-year anniversary of the Department of Veterans Affairs’ toll-free National VA Caregiver Support Line. The support line has helped more than 25,000 veterans, family members and caregivers connect to resources and receive access to services.
“VA recognizes the importance of caregivers to our veterans’ health and well-being. We also recognize the sacrifices the daily care of their beloved veteran requires,” said VA Secretary Eric Shinseki. “It is the care and commitment of caregivers that allows veterans with chronic illnesses or severe injuries to remain in the homes they defended, surrounded by the loved ones they hold dear. I am proud we have been able to help so many caregivers in this first year of the support line’s operation.”
Since the program began, more than 25,000 calls and e-mail queries have come in through the support line. Local caregiver support coordinators at each VA medical center have responded to more than 8,000 referrals.
Responders serve as a resource for caregivers by providing guidance, education on VA programs and benefits, information on community resources and emotional support through brief supportive counseling, if needed. The support line responders can also connect callers to VA’s other support lines such as the VA Veteran Crisis Line, (800) 273-8255, and Coaching Into Care Line, (888) 823-7458.
Call the toll-free VA Caregiver Support Line at (855) 260-3274. Operating hours are 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. ET Monday through Friday and 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET Saturdays. A Web site also provides general information on other caregiver support programs available through the VA and community.