I am on a leave under FMLA while I determine how to care for my husband. Everyone is quick to mention a nursing home for him. But how do we pay for that? We do not have long term care insurance. He is 64. I am 54 and I work a FT job. We also have a 12 year old daughter. The doctor filled out the FMLA paperwork stating I could return to work once I have home care in place for him. But how do I afford to pay for home care and go to work? It seems my check would just go to pay for a caregiver for him. I am debating leaving my job to care for him. We have talked to Council on Aging and we are talking to the VA home health care person next week.
I do not know how incapacitated your husband is, but he needs to work with you. It would be ideal if there was a day care or home care program you could afford that would work with him to regain function as much as possible. Life changes a lot after a stroke. My friend, who is still seriously incapacitated by his stroke, would rather life had gone on as normal. But he has learned to adapt to his new normal so his wife can go to work. He keeps busy doing what he can do and seems fairly content most of the time. He is a good example of what to do when life gives you lemons. He's full of laughter and loved by all his friends. I hope it can be like this for your husband.