She didn't like her daytime caregiver.
She has a history of caregiver abuse and has lost several due to name calling, etc. She has been in several nursing homes/ assisted living facilities but feels the caregivers are "unqualified" and threatens to report them to the state. Two have requested she not return. My mother is currently living with us. Her doctor would like to keep her living at home as long as possible. She receives more personalized care here. I am now receiving regular unannounced visits from the state elder care department. The caseworker is rather hostile and gives me the feeling that he is looking for an infraction. I'm not sure what my rights are. We have a full-time, experienced caregiver and have complied with all requests from the elder care representative. As the primary caregiver ( I'me her only child) the state investigator keeps reminding me that I am ultimately responsible for all aspects of her care. I'm working closely with mom's doctor, a gerontologist and we are following her care plan closely. I'm getting a bit worried about my legal standing. Any advice?
4 Answers
Helpful Newest
First Oldest
First
I think your best strategy is to be "cheerful and stupid"... silly old mom, isn't she a hoot, whatever could she be complaining about now! Her history is well documented and despite her repeated accusations no problems have ever been found. And, worse case scenario, it seems to me if the state really does come in and take over her care it would let you off the hook completely because you would no longer be the one having to deal with this mess.
ADVERTISEMENT
The reason I am telling you this-those workers don't have it all together either.
You don't work for them.
However, that is why they are so dangerous.
When one arrives, you could leave or stay outside. Have a neighbor over to be a witness to the conversation.
Have a lawyer, her doctor or yours write letters to build a defense by stating you are a good caregiver-and Mom's behaviors, etc. You may never need to use them.
There are people on here who have dealt with this dilemma in really effective ways-wait for it...
The DCFS people are required to investigate all reports. It sounds like these have been unfounded because they are leaving her in your care, but maybe Mom, or someone else, is calling in reports to them. What do they seem to think might be deficient? It is some kind of care she is refusing? Is there something your caregiver is not doing or supervising? I have to agree something does not sound right.