Caregiver Support

Caregiver support encompasses the various programs, resources, and benefits available to individuals who provide ongoing care for TRICARE beneficiaries with serious illnesses, injuries, or disabilities. These programs recognize the vital role caregivers play and aim to sustain their well-being.

TRICARE caregiver support programs: • ECHO respite care (up to 16 hours per month) • Non-medical counseling through Military OneSource • Caregiver training and education programs • Support groups and peer connections • In-home care coordination

Federal caregiver programs: • VA Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers • DoD Special Compensation for Assistance with Activities of Daily Living (SCAADL) • Elizabeth Dole Foundation Hidden Heroes campaign • Caregiver support coordinators at VA medical centers

Available resources: • Military OneSource caregiver resources (1-800-342-9647) • Wounded Warrior family support programs • EFMP family support services • State and local caregiver assistance programs • Online caregiver communities and forums

Caregiver mental health support: • Non-medical counseling (up to 12 sessions per issue) • TRICARE behavioral health benefits for caregiver's own needs • Peer support and mentoring programs • Stress management and self-care resources

Caregivers should not hesitate to seek support. The demands of caregiving can be physically and emotionally taxing, and multiple programs exist to help sustain caregivers throughout their journey.