Resources for Caregivers
Resources for Enhancing All Caregivers Health (REACH) VA Program
Caregiving can be challenging. The REACH VA (PDF) program provides support for caregivers:
OVERVIEW
Caregivers will develop skills in problem solving, positive thinking, and stress management. The REACH VA Program has been shown to decrease caregiver depression, burden, and frustrations, and reduce the number of challenging problems reported. REACH VA sessions are customized for each caregiver. The material is tailored to caregivers based on assessments of where they need the most help.
Support and Services
One-on-One Coaching
Caregivers are paired with a trained and certified REACH VA Program Coach, who provides individualized guidance. Each caregiver usually receives four sessions over 2-3 months, with sessions extendable as needed. Sessions can be conducted face-to-face, via telephone, or through telehealth video conferencing.
Telephone Support Groups
Optional six (or more) session group calls teach stress management, positive thinking, and problem-solving techniques. Sessions provide peer support and allow caregivers to learn strategies applicable to their own caregiving challenges.
Caregiver Notebook
Each caregiver receives a notebook containing strategies and information to help manage stress, mood, and problem-solving tailored to specific conditions of their care recipient
Skill-Building
REACH VA teaches cognitive reframing, positive thinking, and practical techniques for caring for Veterans while maintaining caregiver well-being
Customized Approach
Sessions are personalized based on the specific needs and challenges of each caregiver, with assessments guiding the focus of coaching.
Benefits:
Participation in REACH VA has shown to:
• Decrease caregiver burden, depression, and frustration.
• Improve coping skills and caregiver emotional well-being.
• Reduce the number of challenging problems in Veteran care.
• Shorten caregiving “on-duty” hours, allowing better self-care for caregivers
Eligibility:
Caregivers must be enrolled in VA’s Caregiver Support Program and provide care for a Veteran.
The program targets caregivers of Veterans with dementia, SCI/D, MS, ALS, PTSD, or post-9/11 spouses, but may be available to any caregiver enrolled in the VA system.
REACH VA provides structured, evidence-based support that empowers caregivers to effectively manage their duties while maintaining their own health and well-being. The program offers flexible delivery options to accommodate individual schedules and caregiver needs.
How to access REACH VA:
Contact local CSP Team/Caregiver Support Team to learn more about enrollment and servcies. They are licensed professionals who can support you by matching you with services for which you are eligible, and resources that can help you stay smart, strong and organized as you care for the Veteran you love.
Call VA’s Caregiver Support Line at 1-855-260-3274 for assistance connecting with staff, receiving information, or scheduling participation.
*Be sure to check back for updates or subscribe to receive email updates and information about VA Caregiver Support Program services.
