ALS Affects as Many as 5,000 Veterans in the United States
Research shows a service-based connection
There is now research indicating that military service is a risk factor for developing ALS, but no exact reason has been pinned as a cause. According one Harvard University study cited by the ALS Association, veterans are almost 60% more likely to develop Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis than those who did not serve in the military. Tracking service all the way back to 1910, This and other studies have made it apparent that this disease is more likely in military veterans regardless of the era or branch in which they served, and whether or not it was in a time of war or peace.
In 2008, the Veterans Association (VA) established a presumption of service connection for Lou Gherig’s Disease. This means that being a part of the military has exposed veterans with risk factors linked to an increased risk of developing ALS. Veterans are exposed to many chemical and environmental factors that can have negative effects on health, but exact details are unknown. As a result, veterans with Lou Gherig’s Disease and their survivors are eligible for “service connected” benefits.
These VA benefits include:
- Durable medical equipment including power wheelchairs
- Home alteration grants to improve access around the home
- In-home Physical therapy
- Home health aides
- Monthly compensation
Once a person has begun to show symptoms of ALS, the disease can move pretty quickly with life expectancy averaging between two and five years. It is important to look into resources for ALS care in the early stages, as some steps may take longer than others. Symptoms can begin with difficulty getting around and progress to needing items such as a power wheelchair and ramp to get in and out of your home.
Mind & Mobility Home Care is glad to help serve our veterans in any way we can. Our Home care team offers services in safe and professional manner. As a home care company, we are a caring community of experts in assisting seniors with aging at home with comfort and grace. Our compassionate team members relate to each of our patients on a personal level. Our home care and therapy teams work together to support our patients affected by ALS or other diseases every step of the way. We believe that independence is something that should be maximized through home care not eliminated by putting your loved one in an assisted living facility or nursing home.
When To Think About In-Home Care Assistance
Various signs determine that you might be in a need of in-home care assistance.
- When an individual finds trouble while getting dressed.
- Complications in toileting and bathing.
- Unable to prepare regular meals or need assistance while cooking.
- The nutritional needs are not fulfilled due to problems in consuming food.
- Walking requires assistance, or frequent falls occur.
- Increasing mobility issues.
For more information, go to the ALS Service Connected Benefits page where the ALS Association has listed benefits for Veterans affected by Lou Gherig’s Disease.