Common Challenges Veterans Face
Hospice care is not a one-size-fits-all type of care, and we find that veterans have their own unique set of challenges that civilians are unlikely to face because of their experience in service. Our care team is prepared and equipped to deliver care that addresses the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs.
- Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is one of the most common conditions that veterans experience in hospice, and an annual report from the National Center for PTSD reveals that 38% of the 5.8 million veterans who served in 2024 suffered from PTSD. We’ve found that often, a life-altering diagnosis can trigger this condition and severely impact the patient’s mental and physical well-being. Recognizing the connection between mind and body, we offer comprehensive emotional and spiritual support services thoughtfully designed to process their experiences, find inner resilience and cultivate a sense of peace.
- Survivor’s Guilt. Survivor’s guilt is a type of unresolved grief that many veterans struggle with, and terminal illness can increase the effects of these feelings. Patients suffering from this guilt will often experience feelings of sadness, shock, and emptiness. Our bereavement specialists and spiritual counselors can help patients cope and work through these unresolved feelings.
- Traumatic Brain Injury. Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) can have long-term effects on our patients’ lives, with many resulting in physical and cognitive impairments including mood disorders, memory loss and difficulty communicating. Our hospice care team will work hand-in-hand with the VA and community resources to create a trauma-informed care approach that respects the patient’s military culture and personal history.
- Chronic Pain. Service in the military can be physically demanding and result in chronic pain. Our care team will work together to create a care plan to minimize this pain. Some strategies used include pain medication, physical therapies, and holistic practices.
Personalized Veterans’ Hospice Care
At Generations, we recognize the unique challenges that veterans face and strive to provide exceptional care, even in the most complex cases. We do this through:
- Specialized physical therapy for pain management
- Spiritual care
- Emotional care
- Coordination with VA and Community Resources
- Legacy Projects and Storytelling
We understand that for many veterans, asking for or accepting help can be difficult. At Generations, our care team is kind and takes the time to listen to patients’ wishes.