My dad passed away 2 yrs ago and mom said she wanted to try living alone for a year. We all knew she couldn't handle things like finances, repairs or taking care of herself, so she sold her home in another state and moved in with us. Now I'm officially in the sandwich generation - 2 teenagers and MY MOTHER! It's been hard on all of us because she has sooooo many issues; however, she is in fantastic health at 77. Her only physical concern is a bunion on her foot. Her mind, another story. Controlling, argumentative, negative, hurtful, just very difficult to live with. My only thoughts on taking her in with us was to allow her to live out her life peaceful, secure and happy. Why can't she just be peaceful and happy? She has her own room, TV, walk in closet, took over my kitchen and cooks, but constantly says she doesn't feel like she belongs. It is me and my husband's house, we put ourselves out there to help her with nothing in return, but now our family life in disrupted with all her problems. I can only image what it will be like when she does have physical problems. Anything I can do short of another place to live? Her funds are at a minimum, and she wouldn't go to an independent living facility ever.
I agree with AngieJoy above, why not see if there are senior apartments in your area, that way Mom can have her own place and be around others of her own generation.
I will be 70 this year and I still have my career but the thought of living alone doesn't appeal to me. I know I wouldn't be happy living in a household where the younger generation is glued to their Smartphones, and listening to music that doesn't sound like music at all. I know, I know, I am sure my parents weren't crazy about me listening to the Beatles :P
My Dad is in his mid-90's and recently left his single family home to live in Independent Living, the place is like a 5-star hotel. He said he didn't know these places existed as he would have moved much earlier. Yes, these places are expensive but he had saved for this type of "rainy day". He really enjoys going to the common dining room to have dinner with friends who live in the same complex.