Before my mom gets her SS check she has already spent it and feels at the end of the month when she runs out money that I should pay for her medications and she does not need to pay me back. And when I ask for money for house bills, she tells me that you need my money so I can take care of you. With her living with us our electric and gas bill has more then doubled because she has the heat up to 76 or 78 and every light in the house on. I informed her if she goes to a NH that she would just get an allowance.
Once you have POA arrange for her SS to be direct deposited into a new account. Pay Mum's share of the bills, food etc, then let her have what is left over.
Who cares what she says when you ask her to contribute to the household? Every adult should be making a contribution to the running of a house.
Go to the drug store and tell them that you need to move mom’s refill date until after her check comes in. If you need to, pay for a few days pills with the remainder coming in after her check does. If she wants the pills she can pay for them then.
Put the thermostat where you find it comfortable and remind her she has sweaters. When she starts paying the bills she can have a larger say.
Create a system. Add up her expenses and be sure to charge her for her portion of utilities and a savings. Then whatever is left divide by 5 and that’s what she gets each week. If DH is going to pay for fast food add her portion of that to the expenses.
So hypothetically lets say she has $100 after insurance and meds and Her portion of living expenses. So she gets $20 a week. Save the last $20 for a little savings for when she needs something besides pocket money.
THEN if DH is blowing HIS pocket money that’s another conversation.
Oh and get a plastic cover for the thermostat, a thermostat you can control from your cell phone or maybe just move the clock.
Its tough being mom to mom.
Just a note.
There are types of dementia that develop very slowly. I saw my aunt adjust her thermostat and deny it for years before diagnosis. Your mom probably is actually cold. Just make sure she has on some nice warm socks and cuddle dud underwear layered with her regular clothes can keep her comfy.
Give her a cup of tea or other warm beverage. Hopefully she’s not drinking iced drinks or ice cream and then turning up the heat.