I have been a caregiver for my mother for the past 10 years. This has been a challenge since I am a widow and living on a single income. I have 2 other siblings and a few years ago sat them down and told them it was no longer just my responsibility and asked for their help. Neither wanted her to live with them so she is living with me but both agreed to provide $100/mo towards expenses. This in no way pays for her expenses but it was something. Now one sibling has just quit paying and says it isn't her responsibility. Can anyone suggest how I can get her to continue her part, are there any legal avenues, etc. I am at my wits end over this and of course it is disrupting the family as we are now divided over this. Help
Carol
Emman
I was never a great financier, for lack of other words, but since my mom got sick and I became POA of her finances I have shocked myself. I've told my mom several times that I don't know how she did it all these years and was able to save so much money but I've learned in these last 3 months that I too can do, and I've even learned how to save a little bit a month myself. There are so many resources out there for help and I've talked with so many county, state, and government agencies.
I too have had words with my brother-in-law and I won't even go into what we've argued about. He's one who likes to keep up a mess. I just call him "OLD GRANDFATHER CLOCK" cause he looks so old and I keep on going. hahahaha
Have you applied for public assistance (SSI, etc.)? If not, you should. Unfortunately, the only thing you can do with your siblings is appeal to their sense of morality when it comes to pitching in financially. And since you assumed the responsibility of caring for your mother 10 years ago, they don't feel obligated to do anything since you seem to be taking care of everything.
One of the hardest things to do is ask for help. But when it comes to the woman who bore you there shouldn't be a mountain too high to keep you from providing for her. Go to Social Services, Social Security, church, whatever you have to do.
Do it for love, and try not to resent your sibs for not stepping up to the plate. If they have any conscience and realize how important family is, they'll come around ... eventually.
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