My friend is becoming more and more demanding of my time. How do I convince my elderly friend to get the help she needs?

A year ago my friend was placed on Hospice. I always told her I would be here for her. She has never wanted to live in a nursing home or assisted living. She is not close with her children and has no one but her friends.

When she was first placed on hospice I started helping out. Cooking, cleaning and staying a few nights and weekends. She has another friend that helps her as well. Since that time, the other friend started pulling away until they are gone almost completely.

I am married and have adult children, I have a full time job. I am her full time caregiver. I'm exhausted!

I've not been home with my family in months. She has one friend that will come in for 3 hours a day, (During the week) until we find someone to hire so that I can get back to work.

The problem is my friend is becoming more and more demanding of my time. Refusing to hire anyone to care for her. She states that she can't afford it, but that really isn't true. When I am with her she wants all the attention on her. Last night she refused to let me sleep. She continued to talk until I begged her to let me sleep. She can't be left alone because of her condition. I'm so frustrated and tired. I hate to pull out all together but I can't cope with this.

How do you get someone to help themselves? She doesn't have dementia. She is just controlling. I guess I'm a wuss. HELP!