Dad is 85 and can barely care for himself. They live in a two story house. The stairs are right by mom’s bedroom. Dad wants to bring mom home but can’t afford full time nursing care. He’s already complaining about being exhausted from going back and forth to the nursing facility. I’m recovering from spine surgery and just returned to work. I live in NJ. Going back and forth daily to PA after work is not realistic. Also I’m the step daughter so at the end of the day the decision is not up to me but dad & my sister. My sister lives in England. But I’m concerned that whatever decision is made, the responsibility to make sure they are safe will fall on me.
Their friends who live on their block are elderly so we can’t expect them to help if mom comes home.
What should I do?
Encourage dad to go every other day. This is his new normal and it will be lonely for him. It will take its toll and be difficult for both of them but not nearly as much as him trying to care for her 24 hours a day.
Find ways to get dads mind off his wife's absence. Try to get him to socialize, if possible.
Tough situation, always. Hugs!
I live in SW NJ