Henryetta, Ok –  In a recent episode of Guardians of Service on The Henryettan TV, host Tricia Bear sat down with Johanna White, BSN, RN, the local office owner of Visiting Angels in Durant, Oklahoma. The discussion provided valuable insight into the role of Visiting Angels in-home care services and how the organization supports seniors and veterans in maintaining their independence while receiving compassionate assistance.

A Mission Rooted in Care

Visiting Angels is a nationally recognized home care provider, with local offices across the country, including in Durant, Oklahoma. Johanna White emphasized that the organization’s core mission is to serve seniors with “the greatest love and care,” ensuring they can stay in their homes as long as possible. Many seniors face challenges with daily tasks as they age, and Visiting Angels offers a lifeline that allows them to remain in a familiar environment, surrounded by family and comfort.

“Our goal is to keep people at home,” White shared. “As we age, things change, and truly being at home and with family is the most important.”

Comprehensive Non-Medical Care Services

Unlike medical home care, Visiting Angels provides non-medical assistance tailored to the daily needs of its clients. Their services include:

Running errands, such as grocery shopping and pharmacy visits
Meal preparation and light housekeeping
Laundry, dishwashing, and making the bed
Transportation to doctor’s appointments
Companionship and respite care for family caregivers

White explained that Visiting Angels caregivers offer the same kind of support that family members would provide if they were available full-time. “Whatever you would do for your parents or grandparents, that’s what we do.”

Specialized Support for Veterans

A significant portion of Visiting Angels’ clients are veterans who may qualify for home care services through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). White highlighted the VA’s Homemaker and Home Health Aide (HHA) Benefit, which is based on a veteran’s years of service rather than financial status.

“The VA has a benefit called Homemaker and Home Health Aide, which allows eligible veterans to receive assistance with daily activities,” White explained. “This means if a veteran struggles with tasks like cooking, cleaning, or driving, they may qualify for home care services—fully covered by the VA.”

Veterans interested in this benefit must receive approval from their VA primary care physician, who will assess their need for assistance with daily activities. Once approved, Visiting Angels provides the care, and the VA covers the cost, ensuring veterans receive the support they need without financial burden.

Aid for Surviving Spouses

While the VA’s Homemaker and HHA benefit applies only to veterans, White also shared details about the Aid and Attendance Benefit, which provides financial assistance to surviving spouses of veterans. Depending on their financial and medical needs, a surviving spouse may receive up to $1,500 per month to hire in-home caregivers or cover other essential services.

White emphasized the importance of awareness, as many veterans and their families are unaware of the benefits available to them. “It’s a big deal. Not a lot of people know about it, and you have to ask your physician for it.”

The Value of Respite Care

In addition to home assistance, Visiting Angels provides respite care, allowing family caregivers time for personal responsibilities or rest. “Care-giving can be overwhelming,” White noted. “It’s easy for family members to experience burnout, and the VA understands this. That’s why they offer respite services to give caregivers a break.”

Respite care is particularly beneficial for families caring for veterans with dementia or other conditions that require constant supervision. Visiting Angels ensures that while the primary caregiver is away, their loved one remains safe and well cared for.

A Personal Connection to Veterans

White’s passion for assisting veterans is deeply personal. Her grandfather, a veteran of World War II, was wounded in the Battle of the Bulge. He later met his wife, a nurse, during rehabilitation, forming a bond that inspired White’s dedication to serving those who have served the country.

“It’s very special to me,” White shared. “Veterans have given so much, and it’s fulfilling to be able to give back.”

How to Access Visiting Angels Services

For veterans or families interested in in-home care services, White strongly recommends early enrollment in VA healthcare. The three primary ways to enroll include:

Visiting a Veteran Service Officer (VSO): These professionals assist with paperwork and navigating the VA system.
Calling the VA Enrollment Line: Veterans can call 404-828-5257 to apply over the phone.
Completing an Application by Mail: While possible, White discourages this method due to delays in processing.

Additionally, veterans who need a copy of their DD-214 (military discharge papers) can request it online through vetrecs.archives.gov to expedite their VA healthcare application.
Final Thoughts

Through Visiting Angels, Johanna White and her team continue to make a difference in the lives of seniors and veterans, ensuring they receive the care and dignity they deserve. Whether through homemaker services, respite care, or VA-funded programs, Visiting Angels remains committed to keeping individuals safe and comfortable in their homes.

For more information about Visiting Angels and their services in Durant, McAlester, and surrounding areas, visit Visiting Angels or contact their local office.