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Ppangle Asked March 2018

My mother needs care and will not go to a doctor. She can barely walk and has increasing signs of dementia. She cannot bathe. Any advice?

Sunnygirl1 Mar 2018
Has she appointed a Durable POA or Healthcare POA? If so, I might take those signed documents with me to an Elder Law attorney to see about how to step up and take over the decision making on healthcare, finances, her living situation, etc. And, if she hasn't appointed someone, I'd still see the attorney to find out about Guardianship, process, costs, etc. That might be involved, but, if you feel you aren't able to do that, I would consider alerting Adult Protective Services as mentioned above. They can quickly step in and access the situation to see if if it's urgent and needs protection.

If you are nearby and have time, you might try working with her to get her to agree to get medical help and help with her care too, but, that sometimes involves days or weeks or pleading, discussions, planning, etc. I did that with my LO who initially refused to get medical care or assistance, but, over a few weeks, I was able to convince her. But, that involved almost all my time for weeks on end. It was also very stressful and of course, there is no guarantee it will work.

I hope you are able to to find some answers and get her some help that she will accept.

BarbBrooklyn Mar 2018
Does she live alone?

Might you think about calling Adult Protective Services to look into her living situation?

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