VETERANS - why they take longer to die on hospice services?

I'm a Military brat, meaning I grew up moving around because my father served his country in the Army as did both of my brothers. When it was time for hospice services I remember a nurse who specialized in Veteran hospice care saying to me, "It takes them longer to pass because they have much more to work through than you and I". This was such an impactful statement and made me realize just how significant the effects of war is on our Veterans.

You see, they've seen more atrocities and genocide then you and I can even comprehend or imagine. They have a special and unique bond with their fellow Veterans because they literally looked out for one another and protected with their own lives. Aside from the physical issues and exposures our Military men and women suffered, there is an array of Spirtual and Psychosocial issues they struggle with especially at end of life. For many Veterans, the deepest and most painful scars they have endured are ones that can’t be seen. While in their end-of-life journey, those emotional and psychosocial issues often present the most difficult of challenges. The holistic care philosophy of hospice addresses those unique issues facing veterans, such as:

Emotional & Psychological Issues

• PTSD - Post Traumatic Stress Disorder

• Depression & Suicide

• Survivors Guilt

Spiritual Issues Terminally-ill veterans who are nearing the end of life often struggle with difficult spiritual questions. Those challenges are often times worse for those who engaged in combat with enemy forces that demanded the use of violence acts beyond their control. Not only did they have to make difficult sacrifices on the battlefield, they also had to take lives. These internal struggles can lead to:

• Anger and Frustration with Life and God: They may question the purpose of life, God and their very existence.

• Spiritual Isolation: Many veterans fall away from the religious faith as they get older. Now, as they face death, they worry that God or another higher power will not offer eternal salvation.

• Fear and Anxiety About Death: Veterans are worried about being accepted into the afterlife, especially if they have taken lives in combat. And because many American vets came from traditional Christian backgrounds, they wonder if they can be forgiven by God before they pass.

There are over one million plus people serving in the Military. These brave men and women have committed many years of their lives to protecting our country and helping others. However, those years of service certainly take a toll, resulting in unique physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual health issues that manifest themselves as those veterans approach the end of their lives.

The next time you see a service man or woman, thank them for their service to God, Country and each of us. Their journey is unique as they are and they should be cared for with compassion, empathy and love.