Rachel Brauner is a Program Coordinator for OneOp. OneOp is a single-point-of-entry professional development resource for military family service providers. To learn more about OneOp and register for the annual Military Family Readiness Academy (MFRA), visit www.oneop.org/mfra
In the recent MFRA session on Strengthening Health, Wellness, and Financial Security through Total Force Fitness (TFF), we explored the TFF framework and how its approach to health and wellness can be especially valuable for caregivers and service providers. With its focus on holistic fitness and well-being, TFF encompasses multiple dimensions of health, ranging from physical to financial fitness, which are key to supporting caregivers and care recipients.
Holistic Wellness for Caregivers and Providers
Caregivers often prioritize the needs of others, sometimes neglecting their own well-being (Neller et al., 2024). The TFF framework emphasizes eight dimensions of wellness, including physical, nutritional, financial, and psychological health (Military Health System, n.d.). Understanding and applying these principles can help caregivers maintain their own resilience and health, allowing them to be more effective in their roles. Likewise, service providers working with military families can use these domains to offer comprehensive support that addresses not just physical health, but emotional and financial stability as well.
Addressing Food and Financial Insecurity
One of the key areas highlighted in the MFRA session is the relationship between nutritional fitness and financial security. Many caregivers and military families face food insecurity, which directly impacts their overall wellness. In 2020, nearly a quarter (24%) of active-duty service members experienced food insecurity, according to the U.S. Department of Defense. Recognizing the signs of food insecurity and offering resources, such as financial counseling and access to nutritious food, can reduce stress and improve quality of life for both the caregiver and the family members they support.
By using TFF's approach to nutritional fitness, caregivers can be equipped with tools and knowledge about meal planning, budgeting for food, and ensuring access to healthy, nutrient-rich options. Providers, in turn, can play a critical role in identifying at-risk families and connecting them to support services.
Promoting Long-Term Resilience and Readiness
The TFF framework also underscores the importance of financial fitness—including debt management and emergency planning—which can ease financial stress for caregivers and their families (Aker, 2021). This not only promotes personal well-being but can improve a caregiver's ability to focus on those they care for. For providers, equipping families with financial education and resources strengthens their ability to manage economic challenges, leading to long-term resilience (Lusardi, 2019).
In essence, caregivers and providers who integrate the TFF framework can foster stronger, healthier families by addressing the interconnected needs of physical, nutritional, financial, and emotional wellness. By doing so, they contribute to the overall readiness and well-being of both the individual and the broader family unit.
References
Aker, J. (2021). DOD offers financial advice for families & children. Military Health System. https://www.health.mil/News/Ar...r-families--children
Annamaria Lusardi. (2019). Financial literacy and the need for financial education: evidence and implications. Swiss Journal of Economics and Statistics, 155(1), 1–8. https://doi.org/10.1186/s41937-019-0027-5
Military Health System. (n.d.). Total Force Fitness. Retrieved on August 23, 2024, from https://www.health.mil/Militar.../Total-Force-Fitness
Neller, S. A., Hebdon, M. T., Wickens, E., Scammon, D. L., Utz, R. L., Dassel, K. B., Terrill, A. L., Ellington, L., & Kirby, A. V. (2024). Family caregiver experiences and needs across health conditions, relationships, and the lifespan: a Qualitative analysis. International Journal of Qualitative Studies On Health and Well-Being, 19(1), 2296694. https://doi.org/10.1080/17482631.2023.2296694
United States Department of Defense. (2023). Strengthening Food Security in the Force: Building on Our Progress. https://download.militaryoneso...and-roadmap-2023.pdf
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