How to get help

akgreco

My Mom was diagnosed in 2017 and I have been her caregiver ever since. I am trying to find help during the day, but don’t even know where to start. Trying to find out how to get financial help for her too.

M1

welcome to the forum AK, you have come to a good place to learn and find ideas and support. If you've been at this six years already, no wonder you need help. It's a difficult road, but there are lots of kind and experienced people here who can help you get ideas and figure out what's possible for your own situation. If you read a lot of threads, you'll find yourself learning too, almost without trying.

Have you talked to an elder law attorney about her finances and how to qualify her for Medicaid in your state? So many have to go this route in order to afford care in a facility eventually. It's some up front money for the lawyer, but they can help make sure you do it correctly and it' worth doing, because there might be resources out there that you haven't thought of yet (For instance, is she a veteran?). Another thought-call your local Alzheimer's Association Chapter or Council on Aging, and they may be able to put you in touch with some local resources. For example, there may be some senior day care programs near you that could at least give you some caregiving breaks during the day.

I'm sure others will chime in. Good luck and again, welcome.

JustPyrfect

Hello! this is an overwhelming time for sure! If you have been her caregiver for 6 years, its time you looked for some relief. Her condition will only deteriorate from here, and there will come a time that its too much for you.

I started with a small amount of hours with a "home health" agency to try to get my mom acclimated to havinf a "friend" come by and visit. But that was expensive & unfortunately it was necessary, even though she to this day thinks she's fine!! My mom was incredibly resistant to getting help, and was very difficult to work with. She threw caregivers out and even called the police on them!! Then I was then able to find a private caregiver that my mom likes & this has worked out much better. I am in the process of applying for Medicaid - I used an Elder Lawyer that dropped the ball big time - they did not do what they said they would do, and now we are in a bind, So please do your due diligence when hiring someone!

Try your county area on aging - check this site for resources, see if there is senior center close by who may be able to help with suggestions. I basically asked everyone I came across for suggestions! you never know :)

Lowpockets35

Please try The Family Caregiver Alliance, calling 211 phone number and asking them for resources, encourage you to join the FB group called Dementia Through Daughters Eyes as it's a wonderful resource of support, ideas, and a safe place to vent with others that get it and will send you love, nurturance and prayers.❤️

Tanya

Thank you all for your suggestions and support. I too am looking for support. My LO has begun to get defensive and secretive about her condition. My mom has been independent for such a long time. This being her 80th year, I just want her to be safe and happy and healthy. My sis and I have met a crossroad making caregiving even more challenging. I pray for all of you and wish you all peace strength and comfort.