What is the best way to help

TishaB

Hi, My mom was officially diagnosed with dementia last spring. I knew she had it before that. She can still manage on her own… mostly. She is incredibly independent and stubborn, she always has been. I find that all of her good and bad personality traits have become more pronounced. Is that familiar to anyone else?

My issue now is that she needs to move from her home. It's very hard to maintain and she will definitely need more help soon. I'd love for her to be closer as well. How can my husband and I facilitate that? She does not want to move. I have no idea how to make something like that happen without doing something extreme. Any help on where to turn to get more info would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks!

mabelgirl

With my mom unfortunately her bad traits became more pronounced than the good. Have you taken care of legalities like DPOA, medical surrogate, financial authorizations etc? If your mom is still functioning and not at risk I doubt there is anything you can do to force a move (I.e. she is not so cognitively declined to be considered incompetent). An elder attorney would helpful. If your mother is willing you may be able to start some home health aide for her. Try the area agency on aging or your local elder affairs office. Getting someone to assist with household chores is one of the many services they can hook her up with. You could also put cameras in her home to help monitor her and see how she really is on her own. Prayers for safety.