The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs’ (VA) Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers (PCAFC) is designed to support those who dedicate their hearts and time to caring for eligible veterans and service members. Through this program, caregivers can receive not just financial assistance and a monthly stipend, but also personalized education, expert training and at least 30 days of annual respite care. They can also receive emotional support to celebrate the joys of caregiving and help manage its challenges.
Andrea Sawyer’s unique perspective as both a former caregiver and an advocate has enabled her to champion tangible improvements within PCAFC, from legislative advocacy to grassroots education efforts. In this article, Andrea shares valuable insights, practical tips and strategies for caregivers looking to make the most of the program while also keeping their own needs in focus.
Meet Andrea Sawyer
Andrea Sawyer brings deep personal experience to her role as a caregiver advocate. After her husband returned from Iraq with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and traumatic brain injury (TBI), they struggled to find adequate treatment and support. This inspired Andrea to work toward improving services for other wounded warriors and their families.
Leaving her 13-year teaching career, Andrea became a full-time caregiver and advocate. Using her history degree from Meredith College and teaching background, she educates the public and lawmakers on the unique challenges faced by caregivers and veterans. Andrea has contributed to caregiver legislation, served as a national spokesperson and testified before the Senate and House Veterans Affairs Committees on critical gaps in mental health care within the VA and issues surrounding family caregivers.
The Quality of Life Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting and uplifting families who care for wounded, ill or injured veterans, ensuring every caregiving family feels recognized, valued and included. Today as a part of this organization, Andrea uses her personal experiences to guide and support others. Her passion lies in giving back and honoring those who helped her family during their toughest times.
Understanding PCAFC and Andrea’s role
For the caregivers of veterans, there’s no role more selfless and demanding than ensuring their loved one’s well-being. The PCAFC was designed to help lighten this load, but the process of enrollment and navigating the program can often feel daunting. To give families the support they need, the Quality of Life Foundation works with the PCAFC to provide assistance in three key areas. Andrea’s role is dedicated to bridging gaps and ensuring caregivers and veterans receive the support they need. She and her team guide veterans and their families through the PCAFC application process, help with appeals for those initially denied but potentially eligible and advocate for program improvements at both individual and policy levels. By working collaboratively with programs like VA’s Geriatrics and Extended Care (GEC) and the Caregiver Support Program (CSP), Andrea provides a comprehensive and compassionate approach to care.
What caregivers need to know about PCAFC applications
The national approval rate for PCAFC stands at around 30 percent. To successfully apply and improve your chance of approval, Andrea offers these practical tips for caregivers:
- Compile complete medical records
Ensure all external medical records, including community care records and the veteran’s updated VA disability rating, are included in your submission. Some essential documents may not be visible to the CSP systems, so confirming their inclusion helps avoid processing delays.
- Maintain a caregiving journal
Keep a detailed journal for at least two weeks. Record what you do for the veteran every 15 minutes, specifying tasks and why the veteran cannot handle them independently. For example, physical limitations or cognitive challenges.
- Coordinate with VA doctors
Caregiving tasks documented in your journal must align with VA medical records. Talk to your veteran’s physicians about the care you’re providing to ensure consistency.
- Consider evaluations by specialists
For veterans with physical or cognitive disabilities, Andrea recommends an occupational therapy (OT) evaluation with a Functional Independence Measurement Score (FIMS) and/or a neuropsychological evaluation. To learn more information, visit the Wounded Veteran Family Care website.
By preparing these crucial components, caregivers can strengthen their applications and demonstrate a full picture of the veteran’s needs.
PCAFC enrollment timeline and eligibility considerations
Another commonly asked question is, “How long does it take to enroll in PCAFC?” Andrea notes that enrollment does take time, mostly due to the program’s eligibility criteria.
One key factor to remember is that veterans must reside at home to apply. If a veteran requires long-term inpatient care exceeding 90 days, they are unfortunately ineligible to apply until they return home.
Accessing support after enrollment
Once enrolled in PCAFC, some caregivers may find that their needs are still not being met. Here’s what Andrea recommends maximizing the program’s resources and support systems:
- Use respite care
Every PCAFC-enrolled caregiver is guaranteed at least 30 days of up to 24/7 respite care per year. Whether ongoing or on an as-needed basis, this care can be provided at home or through VA-preferred facilities. The type of respite, whether provided by a home health aide or skilled nursing professional, is determined by the physician.
To request respite care, families should contact their assigned caregiver support coordinator through the CSP.
- Advocate for customized support
Care plans, including respite hours, depend upon the veteran’s diagnosis and needs. Andrea emphasizes that persistent advocacy within the framework of the program’s guidelines can help families secure the care they deserve.
- Adopt self-care strategies for caregivers
Among Andrea’s most heartfelt advice is a reminder that caregivers must prioritize their own well-being. A veteran’s recovery is only sustainable when their caregiver has the support and space to recharge.
Her first suggestion is to pick your battles by prioritizing life-threatening concerns first and returning to less urgent issues when you’re in a better place emotionally and physically.
Andrea also says you should always ask for help. It’s okay to rely on others. Whether asking friends, family or respite care services, letting go of some responsibilities to avoid burnout is essential.
It’s also important to accept imperfection. Andrea often encourages caregivers to adopt the mantra, “It’s good enough.” Sometimes things won’t go exactly as planned and acknowledging that is a powerful step toward self-compassion.
- Empower yourself with confidence
Navigating PCAFC may feel overwhelming at first, but with preparation, persistence and the guidance of dedicated advocates like Andrea, caregivers can successfully engage with this critical program.
Maxim Healthcare Services offers extensive home health, personal care and behavioral care services to the military community. To learn more about the services available near you, contact your local Maxim office. You’ve served us; now let us serve you.
