Veterans Day is not just another holiday. It’s a chance to remember the sacrifices that so many have made for our country and to honor the veterans who served in the military. It’s a time to celebrate their courage and strength and the ways they have made our country better.
Veterans Day is celebrated on November 11 every year, but we need to show our appreciation for veterans throughout the year. This day each year is an opportunity to give back to those who have served and are still serving.
2022 Theme
The theme for 2022 is “Honor.” Veterans Day is a time to honor those who have served our country and to appreciate their sacrifices. It’s also a day to look out for the veterans in our lives—those who are still serving, and those who have transitioned out of military life.
Veteran Health Issues
When the war is over, the battle isn’t. It’s also a time to remember that veterans are at risk of health issues that can make their lives difficult, even if they aren’t on the battlefield anymore.
The Department of Veterans Affairs estimates that nearly 20% of post-9/11 vets have post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or depression—and over 2 million military personnel have been deployed since 2001.
And while PTSD and depression are just two of many potential health issues faced by veterans, they’re two that can be treated—but only if the person suffering from them seeks treatment. And while some of these issues can be treated with medication and therapy, others require more life-changing interventions like hospice care.
Many veterans suffer from health issues that require hospice care, such as:
- Dementia
- Parkinson’s disease
- Alzheimer’s disease
Hospice care is an excellent option for veterans who want a peaceful ending to their lives. It provides pain management when necessary and helps patients achieve a sense of peace about their future. But, most importantly, it allows patients to spend their remaining days surrounded by family and friends instead of being isolated in hospitals or nursing homes.
Veteran Care
As a nation, we have a responsibility to take care of our veterans. That’s why we’re proud to say that Oklahoma Palliative & Hospice Care provides veteran hospice care for those who have served our country with honor.
Oklahoma Palliative & Hospice Care partners with the Veterans Administration (VA) to serve our heroes in their time of need. In addition, Oklahoma Palliative & Hospice Care has created Veteran-specific educational material and presentations for staff, volunteers, and the community. The organization has also partnered with local organizations, such as We Honor Veterans, to serve Veterans collaboratively, and has participated in events to honor veterans in our service area.
We believe it’s essential to provide care for all veterans, whether at the end of their lives or in need of support due to a disability. However, we know that veterans’ needs vary widely, and we strive to meet those needs in any way possible.
Get Involved
If you’re looking for a way to honor an American veteran this Veterans Day or any other day, here are some ideas:
- Volunteer at a veteran hospice care facility. You don’t have to be a veteran yourself—anyone can volunteer!
- Sponsor a veteran through your local charity organization or donate directly. Many organizations provide support for veterans in need; help them out with their mission by donating.
- Honor a local veteran by visiting their grave site or memorial.
- Check out a list of charities and organizations dedicated to helping veterans and military families find jobs, housing, education assistance, counseling services, and other important resources for their needs as they return home from war zones around the world.
- Give blood in memory of a veteran who died in or after service.
We Can Help
We believe all people, especially honored veterans, deserve high-quality palliative and hospice care at the end of their lives. We serve veterans and their families with exceptional care designed to improve their comfort with dignity and respect. Contact us today to learn more about how our services can help.