Our 79 year old mother moved into a senior facility and we have noticed a rapid decline in her aging. Due to an unresolved hip issue, she is virtually immobile. She uses a walker and has gained a lot of weight. We have noticed an excessive use of online shopping with many repeat orders and other mistakes, her hygiene is lacking, and her apartment is set up by her so she doesn’t have to “move” that much. She also does not like to leave the facility anymore, even for family get togethers. We are concerned about her mental health, her cognition, and her overall health. We have broached the subject with her and have tried to offer supports to assist her. She doesn’t admit to a problem and we do not know what else we can do for her. It is sad to watch her just decline. What supports are out there to help? Anyone else in this boat?
I would, if I were MPOA, discuss with her doctor as to options. But much of this will come down to your own acceptance that the end of life is not the fairy tale movies sold us. It is instead a time of inexorable loss. I am so sorry. I wish you good luck.
I agree with others about getting assigning a PoA if she does't aready have one. THis is very important and needs to happen before she gets a formal diagnosis of cognitive impairment.
If you have current, active POA you can look into assisted living. AL and memory care aren't covered by insurance, so she'll have to be able to afford them. Her, not you, your money is for your old age.
My first impression from your post is she sounds like my mom, who had the same behaviors. I wasn't able to get her diagnosed with Alzheimer's until several years after the behaviors appeared. Best advice is stick around this forum and read all the posts for a while. It will give you a general idea of options for a variety of situations.