Chisago Lakes Comfort Keepers expands to better serve Vets and Seniors

Comfort Keepers has been working with seniors and Veterans in the Chisago Lakes and surrounding area for over a decade.  Because we seek to serve our clients better, we are opening a new office at 11185 Lake Blvd. in Chisago, and are excited to work with new clients and caregivers in the area.  If you live in the Chisago Lakes area, watch for more information soon about our grand opening and other activities.  

Veterans Services 

Our Comfort Keepers offices proudly serve the veterans who have served our country. As a VA partner, we have experience providing in-home care services to hundreds of veterans, allowing them to live safe, happy, independent lives in the comfort of their homes.  The Veterans Affairs Community Care Network (VACCN) program for in-home care support was designed for those who demonstrate the physical need for in-home care.  Comfort Keepers home care can include nurses and home health aides depending on the person's individualized needs.  

In Chisago County, Veterans Services are provided through Chisago County Health and Human Services.  Located on the main floor of the Government Center.  They provide guidance and assistance to veterans, their spouses/survivors, and dependents. They help you apply for veterans benefits as provided by the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and the United States Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).  Comfort Keepers in Chisago Lakes is currently working with Bryan Brown, the local CVSO in the Chisago Lakes area, to promote community outreach in support of understanding these services.  

Comfort Keepers Services in Chisago Lakes Area

Studies show that most seniors find joy and meaning when they can live in the home they love as they age and remain close to their community. Comfort Keepers provides senior home care services that can help people remain independent in their own homes.

At Comfort Keepers, we believe that an in-home care plan should be customized to each individual's needs, goals, and living situation. The best care improves the quality of life by focusing on home healthcare activities that increase engagement, improve physical and mental wellness, and bring happiness, purpose, and hope.

Our services focus on physical needs and total well-being. We believe that everyone should experience the best of life, no matter their age or the level of care that is needed. At Comfort Keepers, we strive to elevate the spirits of our clients and their families every day.

Our in-home care includes:

• Companion Care to preserve mental health and social wellbeing
• Personal Care to maintain activities of daily living, such as dressing and grooming
• Senior Transportation to safely provide rides for clients to and from appointments or activities
• Respite care to provide temporary relief for family and other primary caregivers
• Private duty nursing with Registered Nurses (RNs) or Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) to offer advanced care 
• Specialized care services, including Alzheimer’s and dementia care, 24-hour care, and post-hospital care

How to Start Your Senior Care Journey

Life can throw us a lot of curveballs so you never know “if” or “when” you may need help as you age.  Like most things, being prepared and understanding your options are a good thing.  In many cases, Veterans or their loved ones contact us at the time some care is needed.  Many times they are not aware of their VA benefits.  Sometimes they have been to a VA doctor but have not discussed home care.  Don’t worry, we can start private pay services immediately, but we can switch the payor source to the VA as soon as you qualify–you simply ask for Comfort Keepers to be your ongoing provider.  

There are some steps you can take:

1. If you have been to a VA doctor but are experiencing changes in your condition, schedule a new appointment.  During that appointment talk to your VA doctor about utilizing your VA benefits for home care.  They can write an order that will trigger a team of people to look for the correct care for you at home.  You may also ask for Comfort Keepers to be your home care company.  
   
   
2. If you do not have a VA doctor, contact your CVSO and discuss the best way to make an appointment with the VA clinic or hospital.  You may also call the nearest VA clinic and discuss making an appointment directly with them.  You may need a referral from your regular doctor.   If you feel you need additional support, the VA provides patient advocates you can contact.  They are specially trained to help you resolve issues with your care.
   
   
3. If you require help in the home before being accepted into the VA Home Care program you can pay privately for services.  Once accepted into the Home Care Program you would request to continue with Comfort Keepers as your provider.  At that point, Comfort Keepers would switch over any billing the VA has agreed to pay to the VA for payment.  You may get additional services from Comfort Keepers on a private pay basis if needed.

Over the past several years the VA has worked hard to make access to these programs easier and to provide excellent service to Veterans that have served our country.  We hope you take advantage of any services that you are entitled to.  If you use the available services, it keeps the program relevant and makes sure that future members of the armed forces continue to get help.  

When you wonder about where is the best senior housing near me–we want you to think–” it’s right here at my home with Comfort Keepers”.