My 91 year old mother recently received a diagnosis of possible early Alzheimer's disease. She broke her hip last year and recovered well for her age. Her mobility is slow with the aid of a walker. She has a caregiver stay with her 4 nights a week. However, she is alone 3 and a half days. She doesn't drive. The caregiver prepares meals for her which are labeled with reheating instructions. I go over one afternoon a week and bring groceries, manage her meds, collect mail, pay bills, etc. I also take her for doctor appointments, etc. She navigates her email pretty well and stays in touch with friends. We have talked about changing her care-plan to have someone come every day in the mornings instead of overnight to cut some of the cost. We have also discussed AL. Mom wants to stay in her condo until she dies. However, I am concerned that the cost of in-home care will not warrant it as her disease progresses. What to do?
It may be time, however, to research AL facilities. Residents in assisted living facilities (not MC) are free to carry on a normal life. The errands you run for her now like bring groceries, manage her meds, collecting mail, will be included with her monthly fee. In addition, you will still be able to pick her up and take her to lunch or to a dr. appt, or just go for a walk.
The cost of AL may not be the financial burden you think it will be. The sale of the condo can fund the cost of AL. In addition, she will be relieved of all the monthly and annual costs of living in a condo., including utility fees, condo fees, property taxes, food costs, owner responsible repairs, cable charges, etc., not to mention her current cost of home care. She'll also have the company of other residences and be able to participate in activities and outings the facility will offer. Check it out.
Best wishes to you and your mom.