WILLIAMSBURG, Va. February 2018 – Congressman Rob Wittman, of Virginia’s 1st District in the House of Representatives, hosted a veterans forum at Riverside’s Patriots Colony At Williamsburg this week, speaking to nearly 50 veterans, spouses and residents of the region’s premier retirement community for military officers and government officials.
In addition to taking questions and hosting an open discussion, Wittman gave a Capitol Hill update, including details on the “No Budget, No Pay Act” and the “Stay On Schedule” resolution; the National Defense Authorization Act for 2018, the Veterans Choice Accountability Act; and the Military and Veteran Caregiver Services Improvement Act.
“We have a number of veterans whose loved ones are their caregiver – maybe a wife, maybe a son, maybe a daughter – and they are uncompensated,” Wittman said. “Under the VA, if you hire somebody to help they are compensated. What we are trying to say is level the paying field.”
Caregiving and supporting caregivers is at the heart of Riverside’s work throughout the region. Riverside, through its Center for Excellence in Aging and Lifelong Health (CEALH) and the Operation Family Caregiver program currently helps coach the families of returning service members and veterans to manage the difficulties that come with returning home.
“We provide free and confidential support to the families of those who have served our nation,” said Christine Jensen, Ph.D., Director of Health Services Research for CEALH. “Our specially trained coaches help military families learn how to overcome the obstacles they face and to manage any challenges that might come along. We will come to your home, or meet by phone/Skype, to customize a 16 to 24-week program that is unique to your family.”
To listen to Wittman’s remarks at the veterans forum, visit Riverside Health System’s Facebook page to view the live video from the event.
Learn more about Patriots Colony At Williamsburg by calling (757) 220-9000 or visit patriotscolony.com. Patriots Colony is located in Williamsburg at 6000 Patriots Colony Drive.