This week’s special educational episode shines a spotlight on the incredible work being done by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to support caregivers, families, and survivors of veterans. In this educational episode, Maureen Elias, a Senior Advisor to the Under Secretary for Benefits at the VA, provides a comprehensive overview of the vast array of benefits and programs available through the Veterans Benefits Administration.

Elias expertly navigates the three key buckets of VA support - caregiver benefits, family benefits, and survivor services. From healthcare and respite care to legal assistance and bereavement support, the VA ensures caregivers have the resources they need to avoid burnout and continue providing exceptional care. Equally impressive are the VA's efforts to adapt homes and vehicles and offer educational benefits for family members and robust survivor benefits, including burial assistance, life insurance, and dependency compensation. Listeners are left with a renewed appreciation for the VA's commitment to honoring the service and sacrifice of veterans and their loved ones.

About Maureen:

Maureen Elias serves as the Senior Advisor to the Under Secretary for Benefits on the development, adoption, and implementation of Department-wide programs and policies related to Benefits. In this role she analyzes and evaluates the effectiveness of these programs and policies and presents balanced recommendations for improvements. She represents the Under Secretary for Benefits in dealings with the senior staff of Cabinet officers regarding Departmental programs, initiatives, and policies.

Ms. Elias is a U.S. Army veteran and a U.S. Army retiree spouse. Prior to coming to the VA, Ms. Elias served on the House Veterans Affairs Committee and at two of the “Big Six” VSOs including Paralyzed Veterans of America and Vietnam Veterans of America. She has been recognized as one of the We Are the Mighty “Mighty 25”, 2021 VA Women Veteran Trailblazer, and as a HillVets100. She has appeared on various podcasts, testified before Congress, and written articles for various media outlets. Ms. Elias also volunteers as a storytelling instructor, helping Veterans, servicemembers, their families, survivors and caregivers learn to share their stories in ways that are meaningful.

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Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver

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Website: www.confessionsofareluctantcaregiver.com

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