Programs for late stages

Khodson

My mom is 74 in we are told she’s in the late stages of Alzheimer’s. She has started having issues swallowing. She can no longer follow conversation. She just tells you the same stories. She is still verbal but just can’t find the right words. She can barely answer questions without being confused. We have to help with baths and hygiene. She is still mobile and can use the bathroom. Our doctors are just not helping to get us any help. My sister and I are taking care of her. We have no assistance. We don’t know where to turn. Any advice on how to get home card or programs to help us? We are desperate! My sister lives with her and works from home but we can’t afford daily care. We just need help! I still work full time and have children in school and school activities and our dad has already passed. We have no one to help.

roadwarrior

I'm so sorry for what you're facing. The lack of guidance from the medical community is frustrating and overwhelming.

Have you used the Helpline for the Alzheimers Association? I've called a couple of times and found them very helpful. There's probably a local chapter in your vicinity as well that may have more local info.

You say she's late stage - have you considered a hospice evaluation? I had to be educated on what hospice can offer. It doesn't always mean that something is imminent. However, doctors typically don't see hospice patients. Care is managed by a nurse with doctor oversight.

Hope you can find the help you need.

mabelgirl

I totally understand the frustration. Try your local area agency on aging. However I think to get free assistance of any kind for long term care is going to require Medicaid or a Medicaid waver. In F L they evaluate where the person is and then assign you a waiting list, the further down the dementia get further up the queue. Even before Medicaid gets approved they offered some in home care services. Even though my mother receives Medicaid and has a case manager don’t look for them to help with decisions or recommendations they imlo seem to only ensure the services are doing their jobs. Another place you might find some direction is your elder affairs office. Prayers for assistance.

SusanB-dil

Hi Khodson - welcome to 'here', but sorry for the reason.

Agree with calling the ALZ line, and also checking out a hospice evaluation. Hospice is different for those with dementia, rather than 'weeks-to-live' circumstances. For many, it is a huge help.