Helpful Tools
Below are a few resources we believe may be useful to you in your role as a caregiver. Some of these tools were specifically created by the VA for Veterans and their families. Others were created by other organizations.
National VA Caregiver Support Program
National Caregiver Training Program's Caregiver Workbook: This is an educational program for family caregivers designed by the VA with the partnership of Easter Seals and the collaboration of Family Caregivers, Veteran Service Organizations and Caregiver Organizations.
VA Legal/Medical Documents
VA Advance Directives, Living Will, Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care: This advance directive form is an official document where you can write down your preferences for your health care.
- How to Complete the Advance Directive Form
- What you should know about the Advance Directive form
- Advance Directive Form-Fillable
Medication Card
This wallet-size Medication Card developed for the VA RESCUE Project will help you keep an easy to carry and up-to-date list of your loved one's medicines. In an emergency, having that information can help save his/her life.
Tips for Communicating with a Veteran's Health Care Team
This tip sheet, from the VA Caregiver program's website and adapted from National Family Caregiver Association resource, offers tips to help make the most of doctor visits and to promote regular, open communication with the medical personnel on the Veteran's clinical care team.
Daily Plan
This link from the Alzheimer's Association's Caregiver Center will describe and illustrate how to create a daily plan that allows you to spend less time trying to figure out what to do, and more time on activities that provide meaning and enjoyment.
