Resources for Older Veterans | VA Mental Health

Older Veterans

Veteran Resources

VA provides a range of mental health programs and resources for Veterans of all ages, backgrounds, and service eras. Here are just a few programs that focus on the needs of older Veterans.

VA National Center for Health Promotion and Disease Prevention

Check out many resources that can help older Veterans stay healthy and active, including tips for sleeping well, the MOVE! Weight Management Program, ways to limit alcohol use, the Telephone Lifestyle Coaching program, and more.

VA Geriatrics and Extended Care Services (GEC)

VA GEC is committed to improving the health and well-being of Veterans who have multiple chronic conditions or a disability associated with chronic disease, aging, or injury. The GEC website has information about home- and community-based services, care in residential settings and nursing homes, treatment for memory loss and brain health, assistance in making decisions about care and advance care planning, and much more. Mental health services are integrated into many GEC programs.

VA Caregiver Support Program

Family members and other caregivers play an important role in many Veterans’ health and well-being. The Caregiver Support Program offers training, educational resources, and numerous tools to help caregivers.

VA Rehabilitation and Prosthetic Services  

Find information about a variety of medical rehabilitation, prosthetic, and sensory aid services that promote health, independence, and quality of life for Veterans with disabilities. 

Make the Connection – Retirement and Aging  

For Veterans who have difficulty adjusting to retirement and aging, connecting with counseling and therapy can ease this transition. Listen to Veterans talk about how they found ways to live well as they left their jobs and started their next phase of life. (See other stories at MakeTheConnection.net.)

Aging Veterans and Posttraumatic Stress Symptoms

For many Veterans, memories of wartime experiences are still upsetting long after facing combat. If you are an older Veteran, your military experience can still affect your life today. Find information at the National Center for PTSD, including a booklet, “Understanding PTSD and Aging,” in English and en español. 

Start the Conversation: Aging Veterans Suicide Prevention Resources

This website offers videos to help family members and friends of aging Veterans start conversations about mental health, including recognizing and addressing suicide risk.

Preventing Suicide Among Older Veterans

This brochure helps family members and friends of older Veterans recognize the signs of suicide risk and learn how to talk to and support Veterans experiencing suicidal ideation. In addition, the brochure offers tips for reducing suicide risk by making the home safer.

Older Veteran Behavioral Health Resource Inventory

This inventory was developed to help health and social service professionals enhance their outreach and support for older Veterans who have, or are at risk for, behavioral health conditions.  It may also be helpful for Veterans and their family members who are interested in details about various programs and benefits. 

Veterans Coffee Socials

Veterans Coffee Socials provide an enjoyable place to meet friends, find resources, and have fun with other Veterans and community members. Explore this page to learn more about these events, view a brief video, and download the Quick Start Guide for Veterans Coffee Socials.

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