Financial Debt of my Mother and how we learned to handle it. Mom continues to receive a check monthly from Social Security.

If your Mom is receiving Medicare, you won't have to pay any hospital costs (nursing home). Her checking account cannot be more than $2000. You would help her file for state insurance (MASS Health in Massachusetts) and then Medicare and Medicaid. Contact your local or county COA agency and they will help walk you thru this. There is help!