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I’m in Florida and my mom was placed by my step dad in a facility that is known for neglect. How do I ask for proof of life? I’ve got a bad feeling about whether or not she is alive. Step dad is non-communicative and moved her, then didn’t tell family members til weeks later. I want proof that she is still alive but she can’t communicate. The facility has not been cooperative until they got word I contacted the state. I’m 1500 miles away, how do I get proof of her status?

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Picasso, as we say here, it is time for you to have boots on the ground. Since you know the nursing home where your Mom has been staying, go visit to see for yourself.

Did Step-Dad tell you that your Mom was in the hospital first? If Mom was in the hospital first, then she was discharged to a nursing home. Your Step-Dad had no choice where Mom would go, the hospital sends the patient to the first available bed.

The nursing home wouldn't be cooperative since your name isn't on the HIPAA form. A HIPAA form has to do with privacy, and no one, not even hospitals, can give out information.

Go to the nursing home and tell them you just flew in from out of State, and would like to visit your Mom.  Be very calm when talking to the Staff at the nursing home, even if they tell you they can't give out any information whether Mom is there or not.  Ask to talk to a Case Working and ask for his/her help.
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In the short term, you can simply call the police in your Mom's town and ask for a well-check. Call their non-emergency number and explain the situation. They will be able to give you a yes or no answer. Also, if you are truly worried that she has died and the step-father is not telling you, look online for an obituary. Funeral homes are required to put something like, "Mary Smith, 87, died on November 28th, 2017" in the paper.
I hope you get some answers!
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yeah money to get there is an issue and cancelling clients, or I would be there once a month or week for that matter. I may call the police and ask for a well check.
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It's been years since one of my relatives died, but I believe that the Death Certificates have to be recorded with a county clerk. You might try checking with that office for the county in which the facility is located.

I think a wellness check is a good idea though.
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Where I live funeral homes are not required to place death notices, thus it must vary from State to State, or different locals. It is up to the family whether they want an obituary. My parents passed within the past two years, the family didn't have an obituary.
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I got hold of the ombudsman. She is alive. Now waiting the docs to sign making me healthcare proxy so they have to inform me.
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Good for you, Picasso! Best wishes to you and your mother.
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Great news! I’m glad you were able to find out and will now how something in place so you remain informed!
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