Southern Arizona Veterans Health Update for Thursday, August 20, 2026

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Southern Arizona Veterans Health Update for Thursday, August 20, 2026


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Veterans Health Library 

Veterans Health Library

Looking for trusted health information you can use? The Veterans Health Library (VHL) offers Veterans and their families easy-to-understand resources and tools to help you learn about health conditions, make informed choices, and take an active role in your care.

Whether you’re managing a health condition, preparing for an appointment, or looking for ways to talk with your health care team, the VHL can help you be informed and prepared to make decisions about your health.

Start exploring today! Visit www.veteranshealthlibrary.va.gov or take the Web Tour to discover all the VHL has to offer.


local news

DAV donates new vehicle and mobility golf cart to the Tucson VA Medical Center

DAV ribbon cutting of new vehicle at the Tucson VA Medical Center

Veterans in southern Arizona have new transportation resources thanks to the generosity of the Disabled American Veterans (DAV).

DAV donated a new Ford Explorer and wheelchair-equipped golf cart to the Tucson VA Veteran Transportation Program, helping support safe and accessible transportation for Veterans.

On Monday, August 10, Southern Arizona VA Health Care System (SAVAHCS) leadership joined DAV members at the Tucson VA Medical Center to dedicate the new vehicles and recognize DAV’s continued support of Veterans.

To learn more and how to connect with the Veteran Transportation Program, check out the VA news article at DAV donates new vehicle and mobility golf cart to the Tucson VA Medical Center


Mindful Eating 

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Mindful eating is the practice of paying full attention to food and the experience of eating. It involves slowing down, noticing hunger and fullness cues, and being present during meals. For older adults, mindful eating can support better digestion, improved nutrition, and a more positive relationship with food.

Many people eat while distracted by television, phones, or other activities. These distractions can make it harder to notice how much has been eaten or whether the body is truly hungry. Mindful eating encourages removing distractions and focusing fully on the meal. Sitting at a table and taking time to eat without rushing can improve awareness and satisfaction.

Eating slowly is another key part of mindful eating. Taking smaller bites, chewing thoroughly, and pausing between bites allows the body time to recognize fullness. This can help prevent overeating and support more comfortable digestion, while also increasing enjoyment of flavors and textures.

Mindful eating also uses the senses. Noticing the smell, color, texture, and taste of food can make even simple meals more enjoyable. Taking a moment to be grateful before eating can also support a more positive mindset around food. It can also support emotional well-being by reducing stress-related eating and encouraging more balanced habits. Over time, these small changes can support better energy, improved nutrition, and overall wellness.

Rainbow Veggie Grain Bowl

Veggie Bowl

Ingredients:

  • ½ cup cooked quinoa (or brown rice)
  • ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • ½ cup cucumber, chopped
  • ½ cup steamed broccoli
  • ¼ avocado, sliced
  • 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Cook quinoa.
  2. Steam broccoli.
  3. Slice and prepare vegetables.
  4. Combine everything in a bowl.
  5. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice, then season with salt and pepper.

Nutrition Information (approximate):

  • Calories: 330
  • Protein: 7g
  • Carbohydrates: 25g
  • Fiber: 8g
  • Fat: 20g

This bowl combines colorful ingredients and varied textures to encourage a slower, more intentional eating experience. Simple preparation steps like slicing, steaming, and assembling the bowl help shift attention to the cooking process and natural aromas in the kitchen. Eating slowly allows time to notice flavors, textures, and fullness cues, which can improve satisfaction and support better digestion.


VHA benefits staff at the Tucson VA Medical Center

VHA benefits staff will be available on Wednesday, September 9 on a first-come, first-served basis

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Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA) staff will be available to meet one-on-one with Veterans to help with questions, disability compensation, pensions, and filing claims on Wednesday, September 9 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. If you have any questions, please call 1-800-827-1000.

All services are provided on a first-come, first served basis

Location:

Tucson VA Medical Center
3601 S. 6th Ave., Quarters 13
Tucson, AZ 85723

Date: Wednesday, September 9, 2026
Time: 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Additional dates: October 14, December 9, 2026


upcoming events

International Overdose Awareness Day

International Overdose awareness day

On Tuesday, August 25, Southern Arizona VA Health Care System staff will be available in the Building 80 Foyer at the Tucson VA Medical Center located at 6301 South 6th Ave. Tucson, AZ 85723 to connect Veterans, their families, and caregivers with important information about overdose prevention and available resources.

Stop by the resource tables to learn how you can help prevent an overdose and ask about free naloxone and drug disposal bags.

Can’t attend? Veterans who need a naloxone kit can call 520-792-1450, extension 1-6581.

Knowing how to respond to an overdose can save a life. Stop by, get informed, and take home resources that can help keep you and those around you safer.


SAVAHCS Creative Arts Show August 27-28

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Come experience the creativity and talent of Veterans from across southern Arizona at the 2026 Southern Arizona VA Health Care System (SAVAHCS) Creative Arts Show!

Join us August 27–28 from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. in the Building 4 Auditorium at the Tucson VA Medical Center located at 6301 South 6th Ave. Tucson, AZ 85723. Explore artwork, music, drama, dance, and creative writing—all submitted by local Veterans.

And don’t miss the live stage show on Friday, August 28 at 1:30 p.m., featuring Veteran performers sharing their talents with the community.

Come celebrate, support, and be inspired by the creativity of our Veterans. We hope to see you there!


DISCLAIMER: THE SHARING OF ANY NON-VA INFORMATION DOES NOT CONSTITUTE AN ENDORSEMENT OF PRODUCTS OR SERVICES ON THE PART OF THE VA.


Resources

VBA Appointment Scheduler 

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Need to speak with Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA)? Check out the Veteran Engagement Reporting Application to schedule a virtual or in-person appointment. 


VA Resource Navigator 

VA Resource Guide

Are you a Veteran but you're not sure where to start with the VA?

Check out the VA Resource Navigator, a short, sweet combination of the most valuable resources to get you started on your way to VA benefits and health care.


VA is here for you

1-800-MyVA411 (800-698-2411) is always the right number. 

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Sent to Minuty@podam.pl on behalf of US Department of Veterans Affairs
Veterans Health Administration · 810 Vermont Avenue, NW · Washington, DC 20420 · 877-222-VETS (877-222-8387)