My 85 yo mom lives alone with her dog. I come over almost daily, but she is lonely. Her friends all live in different cities far away. She rejects going to a senior center for activity and interaction. I suggest that she call or write to her longtime best friends, but she can no longer self-start, and when I offer to help, she says no. I would love to contact a few of her pals and let them know what is going on dementia-wise so they can write snail mail to her without expecting a reply. However, as a former healthcare worker, I am very cognizant of HIPPA. Thoughts?
The other thing you could do is in the proper moment, maybe after she hears from one of these friends, ask her who she would want contacted should anything happen that lands her in the hospital. That should give you a good idea of who it’s ok to share at least the things you deem appropriate with.