Published On

November 2, 2026

Nearly half of all living veterans in the United States, 49 percent, are 65 or older, according to the U.S. Census Bureau's 2021 data, so many East Tennessee families are caring for a parent, spouse or grandparent who served. With Veterans Day on November 11, it is a good time to think about how to honor that service and make sure a veteran loved one has the support they need at home.

For families across Knoxville, Oak Ridge, Maryville, and Farragut, supporting a veteran often means listening more than talking, noticing changes early, and knowing where to turn. This article walks through why the later years can be different for veterans, how to start a conversation about service, signs that a loved one may be struggling, and local resources.

Quick answer: Let your loved one decide whether and when to talk about their service, watch for withdrawal, poor sleep or irritability, and connect them with veteran-specific services. Arrange practical help at home so they can stay independent and connected. If a veteran is in crisis, dial 988 and press 1, any time of day.

Why might an aging veteran need different support?

Because the later years can bring back memories and bring new health and social changes. The VA National Center for PTSD explains that for some older adults, symptoms increase or decrease over time, and for others, symptoms return after earlier treatment. It also notes that it is possible to develop PTSD for the first time later in life.

The Center points to common triggers: retirement and fewer activities leave more quiet time, health problems become more common with age, and older adults are more likely to lose a spouse, family and friends. Not every veteran lives with PTSD, but these changes can make a hard stretch more noticeable.

How can you start a conversation about their service?

Let them lead, listen without judgment, and never press for details. Many veterans prefer to share on their own terms. A few ways to open the door:

Say thank you, simply and sincerely, without turning it into a question
Ask an open question such as "Is there anything from your service you would like to share?" and accept "no" for an answer
Ask about the good parts: friendships, places they traveled, skills they learned
Look at photos, medals or letters together if they offer
Be comfortable with silence

What signs suggest a veteran may be struggling?

Pulling away from people, trouble sleeping, irritability, or avoiding reminders of service can all be signals, especially after a change such as retirement, illness or loss. The VA National Center for PTSD also notes that older adults may be more likely to express mental health concerns as physical symptoms, such as pain or fatigue.

If you notice a pattern, encourage your loved one to talk with their doctor or a counselor, and offer to make the appointment or go along. If someone is in crisis, the Veterans Crisis Line is free, confidential and open 24 hours a day: dial 988 then press 1, or text 838255. Family and friends can call too, and the veteran does not need to be enrolled in VA benefits or health care.

How can you honor a veteran loved one this Veterans Day?

Spend time with them and let them know their service is seen. Small gestures often mean the most:

Visit, call or share a meal, especially if they live alone
Invite them to tell a story, and write it down or record it so the family keeps it
Write a handwritten thank you note from the family
Offer a ride to a local ceremony or veterans gathering if they want to attend
Check in again after the holiday, not only on the day itself

When is it time to consider extra help at home?

Consider help when daily tasks, meals, medications or appointments are getting harder, or when loneliness is growing. Signs include a neglected house, skipped meals, missed medication, trouble getting to appointments, or less contact with friends. Extra help can be as simple as a few hours a week of companionship and support, and it can grow as needs change.

How can BrightStar Care of Knoxville help?

We help veterans and all our clients keep their routines, dignity and independence at home. Our caregivers can help with companionship, meal preparation, personal care, medication reminders and transportation to medical appointments, and we build an individualized care plan around your loved one's preferences. Every care plan is supervised by a Registered Nurse, and we are a Joint Commission Accredited agency. We offer flexible scheduling, from a few hours a week to 24/7 live-in support. Call (865) 690-6282 to talk through what support might look like for your family.

What local resources are available for veterans in Knoxville?

Knoxville has counseling, service offices and crisis support for veterans and their families.

Veterans Crisis Line, dial 988 then press 1, or text 838255, open 24/7

Knoxville Vet Center, 1645 Downtown West Boulevard, Suite 28, 865-633-0000, open Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Knox County Veterans Services, 1000 North Central Street, 865-215-5645

Tennessee Department of Veterans Services, Knoxville Field Office, 9047 Executive Park Drive, Suite 208

Knox County Office on Aging, 865-524-2786, knoxseniors.org

West Knox County Senior Center, 865-288-7805, knoxcounty.org/seniors

Frequently Asked Questions

Do all aging veterans have PTSD?

No. Many veterans do not. But the VA National Center for PTSD notes that symptoms can increase, return or appear for the first time later in life, so it helps to stay observant and supportive.

What if my loved one does not want to talk about their service?

That is common and okay. Let them set the pace, keep showing up, and offer other ways to connect, such as shared meals, photos or time outdoors.

Who can I call if a veteran is in crisis?

The Veterans Crisis Line is free and confidential. Dial 988 then press 1, or text 838255. Family and friends can call to get help for a veteran. If there is immediate danger, call 911.

Where can a veteran in Knoxville find counseling?

The Knoxville Vet Center provides counseling and support services at 1645 Downtown West Boulevard, Suite 28, Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. A doctor can also recommend options.

Does BrightStar Care of Knoxville help veterans at home?

Yes. Our RN-supervised caregivers provide companionship, personal care, meal preparation, medication reminders and transportation for veterans and all of our clients. Call (865) 690-6282 to learn more.