About a year ago, I helped my brother and his wife get a house down the street from me so my brother could assist me with my mother who is diagnosed with alzheimers. Mom resides with me and we agreed he would be with her every other weekend so I could get a break. This has happened maybe twice and his wife has been the one to stay. He is retired. Since she went to work and they have a dog, this has not happened. If I get a weekend, I have to hire the caregiver which is expensive. The excuse is always, "I can't because I have to take care of the dog!" (and now there are 2). That's too many animals to care for with your dog's and mom. I can take my dogs with me, but he will still use that excuse because he basically can't stay sober. I love my mom with all my heart. My mom wants for nothing and I wouldn't have it any other way. I spend 16 hours 5 days a week plus weekends with her and I need a break. Way too stressed!! Thanks for letting me vent.
I introduced my mom to other ladies her age who became her friends. In my area, they have a senior center where they have lunch, outings, and activities M-F, and they have a van for those who cant drive. Being social and part of society is a large part of the mental health in the elderly. Is Mom religious, and can you contact the local church/synagogue/temple? Most have volunteers who will visit and spend time with homebound elderly.
I hate to bring up the ugly subject of money, but pls ensure that you have DPOA for financial affairs, to avoid any future issues too. Again, be careful about leaving work. So sorry you are in such a situation...
Lizdevine....I may not be able to go back to work, so there won't be extra money to pay anyone extra money. My sister in law was good about staying until she went back to work after moving down the street.
Next time your brother uses the dog excuse, tell him how sorry you feel for him as now he and his wife won't be able to dine out, or go to the movies, or a sporting event, and never be able to take a vacation because of the dogs. Wonder how he would react to that?