Commented on a discussion 4/28/2010 at 10:20 pm
You are all such beautiful compassionate people. My heart goes out to you. If your elder can afford an attorney this would be a good thing - find one who specializes in elder law. Also, applying for g
...Read MoreYou are all such beautiful compassionate people. My heart goes out to you. If your elder can afford an attorney this would be a good thing - find one who specializes in elder law. Also, applying for guardianship is always an option. If hiring an attorney is not affordable, you can check with elderlaw within your elder's county, or state. County Commission on Aging can direct you to legal counseling, typically the first 1/2 hour is free so have your questions listed on a piece of paper and be ready to briefly state your utmost concerns. Another option is for your elder to make a call personally (she might get continual free legal counsel) to your state's elder law office - usually this office is in your state's capital as it is within state government departments. County or local Senior Citizen centers, organizations, or groups will be able to give you good pointers. You could consider having your elder appoint a third-party power of attorney. Your elder's county Department of Human Services will have a social worker who could help point you in the right direction with other departments, offices, organizations etc. There is medicaid for those who qualify but each state has its own laws (in addition to federal laws) and your elder might or might not have to already be living in a nursing home before being accepted by Medicaid. Caring for elderly loved ones is all-consuming. I have learned that unconditional love never fails. Always try to be kind. Always remember to try your best to give your elderly loved ones 'happy feelings'.
Good luck and multitude of blessings.