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@TXPatriot2021@freeatlantis.comUpdate on my elderly aunt.
She is still in rehab, but the doctors say she needs 24 hour care now. So I have been researching homecare companies in anticipation of her being discharged next week at some point.
Though still relatively alert, she is very much different from a month ago and it is pretty obvious that she has reached a point where her neighbor and me cannot take care of her properly.
So, prayers for wisdom as I set up care at home and for her understanding it is time.
You poor thing. These decisions are gut wrenching.
They are.
But fortunately, she can afford it but she has been protecting her nest egg this entire time for me and a cousin.
It is time to take care of herself (the cousin agrees). The big issue I have is that I don't have full legal rights to make these decisions on her behalf, but I am going to anyway and just let her holler as much as she wants. Her care is more important than money.
MAGA Bloodbath
I could be wrong, but from what I understand you can share power of attorney with your cousin in the event decisions need to be made on behalf of your aunt. Your aunt should have this documentation as should anyone in the event of such a need.
Better to do it now before she is unable to make those decisions for herself. My mom has Alzheimer’s and we have to get this in place now before she loses it “all the way”.
Thanks for the advice.
Her Trust is set up so that I have full Power of Attorney (POA) if she is declared incapacitated. In order to do that, two doctors have to examine her, or she can refuse to be examined and I just move forward.
Right now, she forgets how things are set up and tells people I have POA and I have to remind her that I don't. Once I get her home, I plan of having an attorney draft the POA allowing me to represent her for all decisions outside of the Trust.
And the cousin is in Pennsylvania and cannot help because she still has kids at home. But she supports the action of using the funds to take care of my aunt.
You’re a wonderful nephew Rick! I dread having to make these decisions for mom. It’s no fun to be the responsible one sometimes! 
The only reason I haven’t set it up for mom yet is I recently “inherited” taking care of her and setting it up may cost some $$’s she doesn’t have. It’s just part of the “to do sooner than later” list. We have just signed with a builder to build extra space in our home for her. One day at a time. Oye! Priorities 
Thank you.
I would move in with her, but she really needs someone who can help her with things that I can't. Like showers, changing clothes, etc.
I have already had my fill of working at her kitchen table only to turn around and she has dropped her drawers because she needs help cinching them up.
Not on my bingo card.
lol!! That’s beyond your pay grade! I get it! I know there are things I won’t be able to do for mom too! Completely understandable. 
@HeyLiberty @TXPatriot2021 @1031 all of this is so familiar! Caring for our loved ones is hard! The sooner things are legal the better. We had a durable? POA set up so mom can make decisions as long as she is able and when she’s not then I can. There are elder resources out there. A quick ask on a local FB page can get you lots of suggestions on who/what was a good/bad experience. People are happy to share what worked for their loved ones. Part-time caregivers can be a big help in some cases.
@HeyLiberty @TXPatriot2021 @1031 there should be social workers at the hospital to help with placement and any other resources she’s entitled to. Veterans services or spouse of, etc. there are some that depend on income and such. We pay out of pocket for a couple hours a week of caregiving. Qualifications/experience/rates depend on level of care you need. Insurance will also pay for home care. We have PT and labs done when she couldn’t go out. Local senior meals too sometimes in your area.
Prayers for wisdom in your tough decision-making process Rick. May God guide you clearly in this process. 
Many thanks my friend.
My Father has been faithful going before me throughout this process.