Shared Decision Making: Veterans & ADHC

Shared Decision Making: Veterans & ADHC

According to the Geriatrics and Extended Care page on the US Department of Veterans Affairs website shared decision making involves the veteran, the caregiver/family, their VA provider and social worker. The goal is “to get services and supports that best meet your (the veteran) long term care needs while keeping you as independent as possible.” Long term care  includes a wide range of services, but the ultimate decision of the services received are up to the veteran; and if needed more than one service can be used at a time.  Your eligibility is based on clinical need and service or setting availability. It is highly encouraged for the veteran to complete the Shared Decision Making worksheet in order to prepare for talking with their social worker about the long term care plan path best suited for their needs. The completion of this process empowers the veteran by informing and teaching them of the options available to help them remain as independent as possible.

Veterans have a multitude of options to consider that range from staying at home, going into a residential setting or a nursing home. Under each of these umbrella options there are different types of services including Adult Day Health Care. “Adult Day Health Care is a program Veterans can go to during the day for social activities, peer support, companionship, and recreation. This service is for Veterans who need skilled services, case management, and assistance with activities of daily living or instrumental activities of daily living; are isolated or their caregiver is experiencing burden.” Health services may be available depending on the center you choose; services may include nursing, therapists, social workers, and among others. This is a great alternative for families that wish to keep their loved one a home because the caregiver can receive valuable help and tips while the center provides them with respite. Typically for Adult Day Health Care you can go to either a full-day or half-day program depending on veteran’s and caregiver’s needs. Usually veterans can be approved to go to the center 2 to 3 times per week, but under certain circumstances they may be approved for 5 days per week.

Adult Day Health Care is included as part of the VHA Standard Medical Benefits Package and all veterans are eligible (eligibility is dependent on clinical need of services and availability). If a veteran wishes to take advantage of this type of service they are encouraged to contact their VA social worker/ case manager to complete the Application for Extended Care Benefits (VA Form 10-10EC).  A copay for Adult Day Health Care may be charged based on your VA service-connected disability status and financial information.

How Can Oxnard Family Circle Help?

Oxnard Family Circle is the only Adult Day Health Care Center in Ventura County to hold a contract with the Department of Veterans Affairs. We enjoy helping those who served our country get the benefits and services they deserve. All the services they may need are under one roof and in a convenient location. Our contract with the Department of Veterans Affairs allows us to provide veterans their own place within our center, exclusively for them. They are free to roam the facility if they wish however and can take advantage of VA outings that are offered. Our center does all it can to ensure our veterans’ comfort while they are present providing them two hot nutritious meals daily along with individual and group counseling.

Including the VA social worker that comes periodically, Oxnard Family Circle ADHC has social workers onsite ready to help veterans with any needs they may have whether it be social services or assistance in getting other needed services. Our day program includes nursing care, social activities, medication administration, dementia and personal care among other things. We also offer rehabilitative services which include physical and occupational therapy, podiatry, massage/pain management and much more. Transportation to and from our center is also available. Schedule an appointment today and see what we have to offer.