Veterans Day is observed annually on November 11 to recognize those who have served in the United States Armed Forces. It provides an opportunity to express appreciation for their service and sacrifices.
However, recognizing Veterans should extend beyond one day. This guide explores meaningful ways to honor Veterans, support them throughout the year, and help them maintain their independence.
What is Veterans Day, and Why Is It Observed?
Veterans Day originated from Armistice Day, which commemorated the end of fighting in World War I on November 11, 1918.
In 1954, the holiday was renamed Veterans Day to recognize American Veterans from all eras of service.
Today, Veterans Day honors those who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces, while Memorial Day specifically honors military personnel who died while serving their country.
How Can You Show Appreciation to Veterans?
There are several meaningful ways to show appreciation to Veterans, both on Veterans Day and throughout the year.
- Express personal appreciation: Reach out to Veterans you know, acknowledge their service, and listen if they wish to share their experiences.
- Volunteer in your community: Participate in programs that support Veterans and their families.
- Support Veterans organizations: Consider reputable charities that provide housing, healthcare, employment assistance, or other resources.
- Attend Veterans Day events: Participate in local ceremonies, community gatherings, or other events recognizing military service.
- Offer practical assistance: Help with errands, transportation, or household tasks when assistance is welcomed.
How Can Communities Support Veterans Beyond Veterans Day?
Supporting Veterans should not be limited to November 11. Communities can make a difference throughout the year by helping Veterans access healthcare, employment assistance, housing resources, and other services.
Family members, friends, and community organizations can also help connect Veterans with available programs.
For individuals experiencing mobility challenges, access to a comfortable and accessible home may become increasingly important.
Offering practical support while respecting each Veteran’s independence and preferences can help make that assistance more meaningful.
Why Does Independence at Home Matter for Veterans?
Remaining in a familiar home can provide comfort, independence, and a sense of stability.
For Veterans experiencing changes in mobility, navigating a multi-level home may become more challenging. Home accessibility improvements can help some individuals continue using different areas of their homes.
A stairlift may be one option for someone who has difficulty climbing or descending stairs. However, suitability depends on the person’s mobility needs and the staircase itself.
For those considering changes to their living spaces, our guide to home accessibility improvements explores ways to make a home more accessible as individual needs change.
How Is Acorn Stairlifts Supporting Veterans?
Acorn Stairlifts is VA FSS APPROVED, meaning the company is available through the appropriate VA Federal Supply Schedule purchasing process for applicable stairlift products and services.
Acorn offers straight, curved, and outdoor stairlift options that may help suitable users continue accessing different levels of their homes.
If a Veteran’s VA care team determines that a stairlift may be appropriate, Acorn can help coordinate the next steps once the applicable VA request or authorization is received.
Depending on the circumstances, these may include a home staircase assessment, identifying a suitable stairlift configuration, and coordinating installation after the necessary requirements are met.
This designation does not guarantee that a Veteran will qualify for a stairlift or that a particular product will be authorized or funded. It also does not mean the Department of Veterans Affairs recommends Acorn over other stairlift companies.
For a more detailed explanation of the designation and the VA purchasing process, read our guide on what VA FSS APPROVED means for Veterans considering a stairlift.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Veterans Day only for Veterans who served in combat?
No. Veterans Day recognizes U.S. military Veterans who served during wartime and peacetime. The holiday honors Veterans regardless of whether they participated in combat.
What is the difference between Veterans Day and Memorial Day?
Veterans Day, observed on November 11, recognizes those who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces.
Memorial Day, observed on the last Monday in May, specifically honors military personnel who died while serving their country.
How can families honor Veterans at home?
Families can honor Veterans by spending time together, listening to their experiences if they wish to share, displaying photographs, or participating in meaningful traditions.
Offering practical assistance and respecting each Veteran’s preferences are also thoughtful ways to show appreciation.
Can Veterans receive stairlift assistance through the VA?
Veterans may be able to receive stairlift assistance through the appropriate VA process, depending on their individual circumstances and applicable requirements. Veterans should speak with their VA care team to understand their options and any required authorization.
Where Can Veterans and Their Families Find More Information?
Veterans interested in stairlift assistance should begin by speaking with their VA care team about their mobility needs and applicable authorization requirements.
Family members and caregivers can help gather information, prepare questions, and support Veterans throughout the process. They can also contact Acorn for general information about available stairlift options and the applicable process.
However, eligibility and authorization decisions remain with the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Acorn can provide information about its stairlift products and its role as a VA FSS APPROVED supplier.
As we honor Veterans this November 11, let us remember that meaningful appreciation extends beyond one day through continued support, understanding, and respect.
Veterans and their families can also visit the Acorn Stairlifts Veterans website to learn more about available stairlift options and Acorn's role in the VA process.
