Serving You is written by Legion command service officers. To reach a service officer, call toll-free 1-877-534-4666, or consult a command website. For years of archives, visit legionmagazine.com
Military service impacts the lives of not only members and veterans, but also their families. Making sure families are supported is essential to veterans’ well-being; a strong family network can improve recovery, mental health and overall quality of life.
Spouses, children and caregivers of members and veterans often provide significant emotional, physical and financial support, particularly for those living with wounds or mental health conditions. Veterans Affairs Canada offers a range of benefits and programs to eligible family members, such as mental health counselling, family support services, educational assistance, caregiver recognition benefits and survivor benefits.
Family members, including spouses, common-law partners and dependent children, may be eligible for mental health counselling related to the challenges associated with a loved one’s service-related psychological injury. Currently, this counselling must be linked to the member’s or veteran’s treatment: if they aren’t participating in treatment, family members may not qualify for support. The Royal Canadian Legion and other veterans’ organizations continue to advocate for mental health services for family members impacted by a loved one’s service-related disability based on their own needs.
Families also play a vital role in caring for members and veterans with disabilities or chronic health conditions. They often assist with daily living activities, medical treatments and appointments, transitioning to civilian life, and maintaining social connections. As such, VAC offers the Caregiver Recognition Benefit and other support services designed to reduce stress and enhance the quality of care veterans receive.
In addition, the veterans ombud has recently published an online Survivors Resource Guide providing practical information and support for caregivers after a member or veteran has died.
The Legion has long recognized that the well-being of veterans is closely connected to that of their families and the support they receive. If a caregiver requires financial assistance or help with disability benefit applications or appeals for medical conditions, contact veteransservices
@legion.ca or call 1-877-534-4666.
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