My father recently moved in with me from California. I was completely unaware of his failing mental and physical state until he came to live with me. He is 65 and is in desperate need of assistance. I drive 31/2 hours to and from work everyday, so my father is alone the majority of the day. He is randomly wandering down the road, heading into town, however I live eleven miles out of town. He will cook, using the oven and the stove and forget to turn them off. They will be on for hours!! I am extremely worried and frustrated at this point. He collects Social Security and that is all. I am in desperate need of assistance with my father, however, I do not know where to start. Can someone please help me find some resources for my father. I live in Woodlawn, TN., right outside of Clarksville, TN.
Thank you
Robert
Dad needs a full medical evaluation so you know what you are dealing with. I suggest finding a geriatrician -- a doctor who specializes in the concerns of old age, just as a pediatrician specializes in the concerns of childhood.
Good luck with getting your dad evaluated. Sounds like he may need to be in an assisted living facility for his own safety and your peace of mind.
Now that you know and understand your father's level of dementia, you could become legally responsible for negligence an elder indangerment in caring for him by allowing him continue to do what you describe he has been doing: hazardous things around the house and on the road when he's trying to walk into town.
Your local Department of Aging and Adult Services is a good place to start but you cannot continue to leave him alone for 7 hours a day, possibly not even 15 minutes. I used to take my aunt with me to work, but I have my own business so I was able to do that. If you don't have that luxury, or the luxury to work from home, you need to hire immediate assistance so that he is not left by himself. Anyrhing less than that, under the circumstances, could be considered a criminal act. Different municipalities pursue these situations in many different ways and you don't want to leave yourself open for legal action.
How did he come to be with you? It sounds a bit strange that you didn't have any idea about his condition.
Also contact the Alzheimer's Association.
Thanks so much!
Wishing you and your father the Best.