My father has dementia and mom is wheelchair bound but completely cognizant. I as the daughter have been named Healthcare Proxy. After my dad wandered out one night, Elder Services became involved and sent a psychologist to their home unnanounced and without my presence telling them that there is a law in MA that states they have the authority to place my dad in a nursing home and force them to sell their home for payment against their wishes. Is this true?
APS has no way of knowing of your healthcare proxy, do they? Unless mom said " I'd like my daughter to be here. Please call her and let's set up a meeting" or, " let me get my daughter on speaker phone".
When an elder with dementia wanders, the person is a danger to himself. The state has the right and duty to step in and protect your father.
In most states, if there is a spouse in the home, it can't
be sold while the spouse lives in it, so your mother would have lifetimes rights to live there. But a lien would be placed by Medicaid to recoup payment for services.
Call APS for clarification. Did mom get a business card from the person who visited?
I would cooperate with them and ask for the help in getting more assistance for your parents.
What is your immediate plan for keeping dad from wandering, I.e. safe?
It is s best to cooperate with APS they are trying to help. Maybe mom is not able to provide the necessary care any longer. Do you live with them?