RI Veterans: Did you know? (Alzheimers med, women vets, events) 06-MAR-23, John A. Cianci

by John A. Cianci, contributing writer on veterans issues

Did you know the Veterans Administration will cover the newest, pricey drug, Leqembi for eligible veterans enrolled in Veterans Health?

NOTE: To be eligible for the drug (not covered by Medicare), a veteran must be enrolled in the VA healthcare program and at least, schedule and attend an annual physical with the VA.

Just recently the Veterans Administration (VA) announced it will cover a new biologic treatment, Leqembi, for some veterans in the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease, according to a press release from the manufacturer.

According to Wikipedia, the drug Lecanemab, is sold under the brand name Leqembi, is a monoclonal antibody medication used for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease. Lecanemab is an amyloid beta-directed antibody. It is given via intravenous infusion. Lecanemab was approved for medical use in the United States in January 2023.

The VA currently treats an estimated 168,000 for Alzheimer’s. According to the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) the experimental $26,500-per-year Alzheimer’s drug, will be covered, even though Medicare will not.

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services rejected a request from the Alzheimer’s Association for unrestricted coverage late last month, saying that officials need to see more data.

Unlike many seniors who will not be able to access the drug due to the high cost, veterans enrolled in the VA Healthcare will be covered.

If you are not enrolled in the VA Healthcare system, recommend you immediately enroll:

Step 1: If you are a veteran and have a DD214, apply, even if you were denied previously.

Step 2:  Apply:

Option 1: Apply by phone

Call the toll-free hotline at 877-222-8387, Monday to Friday, 8:00am to 8pm ET.  

Option 2: Apply by mail

Fill out an Application for Health Benefits (VA Form 10-10EZ).
Get VA Form 10-10EZ to download

You or someone acting as your power of attorney must sign and date the form:

• If you’re using a power of attorney, you’ll need to submit a copy of the Power of Attorney form along with your application.
• If you sign with an “X,” 2 people you know must witness your signature. They’ll also need to sign and print their names on the form.

Send your completed application here:

Health Eligibility Center
2957 Clairmont Rd., Suite 200
Atlanta, GA 30329

Option 3: Apply in person

Fill out an Application for Health Benefits (VA Form 10-10EZ).
Get VA Form 10-10EZ to download

You or someone acting as your power of attorney must sign and date the form.

• If you’re using a power of attorney, you’ll need to submit a copy of the Power of Attorney form along with your application.
• If you sign with an “X,” 2 people you know must witness your signature. They’ll also need to sign and print their names on the form.

Go to your nearest VA medical center or clinic. Bring a signed Application for Health Benefits (VA Form 10-10EZ) with you.
Find a VA medical center or clinic near you

Option 4: Apply with the help of a trained professional:

You can work with a trained professional called an “accredited representative” to get help apply for health care benefits.

If the veteran has limited ability to travel, the Italian American War Veterans of US will send one or two of the organization’s people to the veteran’s home to assist. Contact ITAM organization (401) 677-9838 or email [email protected]

Shout out to VA: “Thank You” for the estimated 162,000 veterans that could be eligible for this new drug, which might afford the veteran the opportunity to maintain a quality of life for many more years despite being diagnosed with Alzheimer.

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Events

Happening Today: March 16, 2023 – RI Elder Info’s 3rd Annual Calling All Women Warriors:

RI Elder Info is excited to announce its 3rd Annual Calling All Women Warriors event, which will take place on Thursday, March 16, 2023, from 9am-11am, via live streaming on RI Elder Info’s Facebook and YouTube pages.

This event will be an opportunity for Women Veterans of all eras, their spouses, or their aging parents to receive information on resources and benefits from subject matter experts that will empower and educate them. Lieutenant Governor Sabina Matos will provide the opening remarks for the event, which will feature an impressive lineup of Women Veterans who are experts in various fields, providing valuable information to viewers.

“Our 3rd Annual Calling All Women Warriors event is an important opportunity for Women Veterans and their families to receive meaningful information from subject matter experts,” said Deb Burton, Executive Director of RI Elder Info. “We are grateful to have the support of our sponsors and look forward to connecting Women Veterans with the resources and benefits they deserve.

“The event is free and open to the public. Viewers will have the opportunity to ask questions in real-time and have them answered by the speakers.

Any questions that cannot be answered during the event will be followed up on. For more information on the event and to view the full agenda and speaker lineup, visit https://rielderinfo.com/calling-all-women-warriors-2023/

March 19, 2023, 10:30 a.m. “Camaraderie Coffee” for veterans at South Kingstown Nursing and Rehabilitation, 2115 S County Trail, West Greenwich.

South Kingstown Nursing and Rehabilitation. Picture by John Cianci

Veterans Organization Launches Adopt a Veteran Program

The Italian American War Veterans of US announced the organizations newest program, Adopt a Veteran.

On Saturday, March 19, 2023, 10:30 a.m., “Camaraderie Coffee” will start at South Kingstown Nursing and Rehabilitation.

Veterans at the home will be connected to local veterans who will not only have coffee with the veterans, but homemade Italian pastries will be provided by Perrella’s Ristorante, located at 311 Metacom Ave, in Warren, and ROMA, 310 Atwells Ave. in Providence.

The “Adopt A Veteran” program’s mission is to connect veterans living in Rhode Island nursing homes, and assistance living centers.

“Veterans have a special bond,” said John A. Cianci, ITAM State Commander, “Unlike the state veteran’s home, most nursing homes and assisting living facilities don’t offer veterans  “camaraderie” – a band of brotherhood and sisterhood the veteran missing since being discharged from the military. 

Unless you have served, one cannot understand the camaraderie among those who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces.

“Sadly, ITAM was denied celebrating St. Joseph’s Day with our membership at the Rhode Island Veterans Home, despite NO ACTIVITIES scheduled for that day for the veterans,” said Bill, a member of ITAM organization. The denial afforded the ITAM organization an opportunity to launch the Adopt A Veteran program at other long term care facilities.

“I was blessed to have been connected to a few homebound veterans by the ITAM organization during and after COVID,” said Bill, “I can’t describe the feeling you have when you witness the experience of having a coffee once or twice a month with a veteran – what that means to him or her.”

“I’m excited to meet more veterans to not only share our military service stories, but Rhode Island stories that connect us,” Bill added.

ITAM organization is hoping to connect with every Rhode Island nursing home and assisting living facility to schedule a monthly “Camaraderie Coffee” event.

“We need veteran volunteers throughout Rhode Island. It’s not a lot of time to commit once a month to have coffee with a veteran living at any of the initial facilities targeted to connect with,” said Cianci.

If interested in being a volunteer to connect with a local nursing home/assistant living facility, contact ITAM organization at (401) 677-9838 or email, [email protected].

If you are an activity director, family member of a veteran, or veteran willing to volunteer at a facility in your city or town, contact ITAM organization to schedule a “Camaraderie Coffee” event. Like the military, and event can be scheduled any time or date with proper planning.

“Hope the veterans at South Kingstown facility like eating, as we have some summer events planned for them, too,” said Cianci.

March 19, 2023: St. Joseph’s Day Dinner, 3:00-6:00 p.m., Perella’s Ristorante, 311 Metacom Ave, Warren, RI. Dinner choices, chicken parmigiana or veal and peas or eggplant parmigiana, to include family style penne, antipasto, and Italian pastry. For ITAM members, dinner is free for members and guests. Tickets are available for purchase by calling ITAM office (401)677-9838 or email.itamri4vets@gmail.  

March 29, 2023: 11:30 National Vietnam Veteran Day Welcome Home Luncheon, Rhode Island Veterans Home, 400 Metacom Ave, Bristol RI sponsored by the Italian American War Veterans of US. Italian luncheon and dessert FREE to all RI Veterans Home Vietnam Veteran and their guest. Families and veterans can sign up at the veteran’s home activity department. Vietnam veterans residing at the home can REQUEST A WISH MEAL they would like to have. Example, the veteran wants a stuff lobster, stuff shrimp, steak, etc. .The Italian American War Veterans of US will coordinate with Perella’s Ristorante to accommodate the Vietnam Veteran’s request. Special request please contact ITAM’s office (401) 677-9838 or via email [email protected]  

April 8, 2023: Women’s Veterans Luncheon 12:00 p.m. at Rhode Island Veterans Home, 400 Metacom Ave Bristol RI. Women veteran with veteran ID meal is FREE. All other $15. Reservations are a must, contact Ginny Hanson, (401) 294-2434, email [email protected] or Gretchen at (401) 862-9639, email [email protected]. Deadline for reservations is Wednesday March 22, 2023. 

April 21, 2023: Calling All Women Warriors Virtual Conference is an opportunity to receive information on resources and benefits for Women Veterans of all eras, their spouses, or their aging parents. The event will be live streamed on RI Elder Info’s Facebook page and YouTube channel. 

Presenters are Women Veterans who are experts in their field on the unique needs of the women who have served our country and the resources available to them. Speakers answer your questions in real time. Any question that can’t be answered during the event will be followed up on. This is an opportunity for the community to gather information and resources that empower their own independent aging! 

April 23, 2023:  Chopstick Auction for Department VFW Auxiliary Ways and Means Committee, Kelley Grazzero Post #2812, 1418 Plainfield Street, Cranston RI. Auction starts 1:00 p.m., more information call Stephen Doherty, (401) 500-1255 

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RESOURCES & ongoing groups 

Below are all the groups the Providence Vet Center is currently offering.  As this list changes, I will provide updates. Please send me any questions that you may have, thank you for your time! 

***All Vet Center Groups require that the Veteran be enrolled with the Vet Center prior to attending. To check eligibility or for questions, please contact the Vet Center at (401) 739-0167 or reach out to our Veteran Outreach Program Specialist (VOPS) via email at [email protected]*** 

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Group (PTSD) – 2nd and 4th Tuesday of the month from 2:00 – 3:30 p.m. (Group is only active September through May) 

Global War on Terrorism (GWOT) and Vietnam Veterans PTSD Group – 2nd and 4th  Wednesday of the month from 9:30 – 11:00 a.m. 

Vietnam Veteran PTSD Group – 1st and 3rd Monday of the month from 10:30 – 12:00 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. 

Art Expression Group – Every Thursday from 9:00 – 12:00 p.m. 

Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF)/Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF)/Operation New Dawn (OND) Group – Every Wednesday from 11:00 – 12:00 p.m. 

Stress Management – Every Thursday from 9:00 – 10:00 a.m. 

Low Impact Walking Group – Every Tuesday from 9:00 – 10:00 a.m. 

Guitar 4 Veterans – Every Wednesday from 7:00-8:30 p.m. 

Monday Mindfulness Group – Every Monday from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. 

Yoga Group – Every Friday from 12:00 – 1:00 p.m. 

Moral Injury Group – Every Friday from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. 

Modern Warrior Support Group – 1st and 3rd Monday of the month from 2:30 – 4:00 pm. 

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Discounts for Veterans 

Services 

No Problem Plumbing and Heating LLC 15% military discount , ask for Ron Gaynor, (401) 568-6666. Veterans must provide proof of eligibility with a VA Card, VA ID Card, or RI State license with veteran identification. 

Restaurants 

Applebee’s – Military Discount. With more than 2,000 locations, Applebee’s is a family grill restaurant. Applebee’s gives 10% off for active duty and veteran. Last verified 07/31/2022. 

Denny’s – Hartford Ave, Johnston offers 10% discount for veterans and active duty. Denny’s is a table service diner-style restaurant chain. Last verified 07/31/2022. 

Outback Steakhouse – 10% Discount to active and veterans. Last verified 07/28/2021. 

99 Restaurant & Pub – The 99 Restaurant & Pub offers a 10% military discount to members of Veterans Advantage. Available at select locations only. Bring valid military ID. 

Retailers 

Advance Auto Parts – 10% for Active Duty, Veterans, and families. Last verified 07/28/2021. 

Bass Pro Shops –  Offers a 5% discount to active-duty military, reservists, and National Guard. Sign up and verify your status online or bring your military ID when you shop at your nearest Bass Pro store (source). 

BJs Wholesale – Reduced membership fee. BJ’s offers all military personnel over 25% off their Membership. Last verified 07/28/2021. 

Lowes – Enroll in the Lowe’s Military Discount Program to activate your 10% discount – “Our way of saying Thank You” to our active duty, retired and military veterans and their spouses with a 10% discount on eligible items. Verification of your military status is fast and easy through our partner, ID.me. 

ID.me is our trusted technology partner in helping to keep your personal information safe. 

GameStop – is offering a 10% in-store military discount on all pre-owned products, collectibles, and select new products. Available to current and former military members who bring any valid proof of service or when they verify through ID.me 

Home Depot – Offers a 10% off military discount on regularly priced merchandise for in-store purchases for active duty, retired military, and reservists at participating locations. Customers are required to show a valid government-issued military ID card to redeem this offer. 

Kohls – 15% discount offers for active military, veterans, retirees, and their immediate family members a 15% discount on purchases made on Mondays, in store only. In order to receive the military discount, eligible customers must present proper identification along with any tender type. 

Jiffy Lube – HONORING VETERANS ALL DAY EVERY DAY! – We didn’t want to wait for Veteran’s Day to express our appreciation and gratitude for your service. That’s why every Team Car Care owned and operated Jiffy Lube® service center is offering our BEST discount of 10% OFF as a “Thank You” to the men and women of our Armed Forces for their service to our country. *Disclaimer*- I.D. required. No coupon is required. Excludes batteries and brakes, alignment, and diagnostic services. Available only at 3 select locations listed below: 

Tioque Ave, Coventry RI – Bald Hill Road, Warwick RI – Park Ave, Cranston RI 

Michaels – offers a 15% off military discount on the entire in-store purchase including sale items for active duty, retired military, guard, reservists, veterans, and family members. How to get – 

1.    Create an Account. Log in or create a Michaels Rewards account. 

2.    Get Verified. Provide your military information to get verified instantly. 

3.    Go Shopping! To use your discount online and in store, just sign into your account or provide your Michaels Rewards phone number at checkout. 

O’Reilly Auto Parts – 10% discount on in store items for Active Duty, Veterans and families. Last verified 3/4/21. 

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If you are a retailer and or a veteran aware of a business not listed above, please forward to:[email protected]:  the business’s name, location, and military and veteran discount offered. 

If you have an event, meeting, other pertinent veteran information, or email questions or help needed, contact the Italian American War Veteran Service Officer, John A Cianci, [email protected], ITAM Office 1-(401)677-9VET(9838) 

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To read all columns in this series go to: https://rinewstoday.com/john-a-cianci/  

John A. Cianci is a Veteran Service Officer. Retired, U.S. Army MSgt., Persian Gulf War and Iraq War combat theater.

Cianci, a combat disabled Veteran, served in Desert Shield/Storm and Operation Iraqi Freedom. His awards include Bronze Star, Combat Action Badge, Good Conduct, and others.

Cianci belongs to numerous veterans organizations – Italian American War Veterans, American Legion, Veterans of Foreign War, United Veterans Council of Rhode Island, and many more organizations. He is an active volunteer assisting veterans to navigate federal and state benefits they have earned. He is Department of Rhode Island Department Commander Italian American War Veterans and Veteran Service Officer.

He is a graduate of Roger Williams University (BS Finance), UCONN business school* (Entrepreneur Bootcamp for Veterans), Solar Energy International Residential, Commercial and Battery Based Photovoltaic Systems certificate programs, numerous certificates from the Department of Defense renewable energy programs, including graduate of the Solar Ready Vets Program.