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My mother is 74 yrs old and has no money. For the past 10 years or so she has lived in a subsidized senior living facility in Russellville, Alabama. She has experienced a gradual decline that has come to a head recently where she has begun to call the police about the delusions she is experiencing. She believes the imaginary people- that she calls "the listeners"- are trying to kill her.


She has temporarily moved in with her sister and her sister's husband but last night she called the police saying that there were people committing a murder in the basement. I called and asked her what was going on and she started crying and said, "I think I am going crazy"...and she agreed that it would be best if she were somewhere that she could be cared for in a safe place.


I will add that her health issues are a general frailty-she broke her hip 2 yrs ago- and she has COPD as a lifelong smoker.


My question would be what options are available for someone without any $$ for assisted care that is her age? Are there MEDICARE options? MEDICAID? Thanks

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Delusions are common with dementia in the mid to later ages. Delusions are treatable, however. Have her doctor refer her to a psychiatrist for treatment. She already is concerned about "going crazy" so she may be receptive to the idea. Because her care will be paid for by Medicaid, call them and ask their recommendation for facilities. Your state Dept of Aging is also a good resource to involve.
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You can google “Medicaid Alabama.gov” to get enough info to get your search started. There may also be a social service person available to residents of her previous living facility.

If she has designated a POA, that person needs to be involved and take charge, but otherwise, you or some other trustworthy person close to her should assume that responsibility. You will need to find a lawyer with family life/geriatric experience to be sure the POA is done correctly.

You will have the obvious problem of having to deal with Corona virus related issues right now, but you will be able to begin the process of educating yourself.

She is fortunate to have you there for her.
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