Communicate with Our Veteran Residents

Veterans Day has come and gone, but we need to know how we can continue to reach out to the veterans who are residents on our properties. Sometimes it is difficult for us to communicate for fear of asking or saying the wrong things. This letter was recently published in newspapers around the country and can offer help to staff and resident service coordinators.

As Veterans Day approaches, may I share a few guidelines that can be helpful when interacting with veterans or service members?

1. It is never OK to ask a veteran if he or she has killed someone or to joke about it. If we have, we can’t talk about it with our spouses, much less a stranger.
2. When you thank us for our service or pay for our meal, it is really appreciated. We also appreciate packages and notes.
3. Please don’t tell us that wars are a waste of dollars or lives or were fought for oil. What we hear is that, in your opinion, our best friend died for nothing. We know many people disagree with war, but it’s better to keep your opinions to yourself.
4. Many of us now have PTSD (Post Trauma Syndrome Disorder). If you see us acting anxious or moving away from crowds, turning our backs to the wall or fidgeting, simple kindness or a little distraction will be appreciated. Talk to us about something interesting and give us some breathing room.
5. Please remember that 15 percent of those who serve in the military are women, and some have been in combat. It’s better to ask, “Are you a veteran?” rather than, “Was your husband a soldier?”
6. As with any person who has a disability, please do not stare at us. We can be sensitive about our scars or injuries and would prefer not to be asked to relive a difficult experience by being quizzed about what happened. Please understand that war injuries today are very different that in the past and are often not visible. It is not OK to tell someone they “don’t look disabled” or appear to need help.

Those of us with disabilities appreciate light conversation and assistance if we look like we are in need.

It was my pleasure to serve our country.

Amanda C., U.S. Army, disabled veteran.