I can’t keep up with their medical, emotional and physical needs. I have 4 hours of help so I can work. I feel like I’m gonna break and then what happens to them. Do I need to DIE in order for them to get help. I have no one to help me. They have no savings. How am I supposed to care for them and work? My depression is taking over and I feel like my life is over.
Best wishes to you and your family.
Good luck to you.
There is a way for you to get help if you really need and want it. If the social workers see your parents as vulnerable or neglected, they will take action. Last week we had a post from a young man who was upset APS took his father away because he wanted to take care of him, though I think he wanted to take care of him partly for financial reasons as well. Keep in mind if your parents go to a facility under Medicaid, all of their income will be used for their care, so hopefully you don't need to rely on most of their income to keep the household afloat. But my point is, APS will take your parents and provide them a safe environment if necessary. You would have to take steps to initiate that process. I was once close to that point because I had to work and my father deteriorated to the point of needing 24 hr care. I couldn't be there and we couldn't afford in home caregivers. I spoke to a nurse and she mentioned a referral to APS. I was horrified at the sound of it, so I took him to the hospital instead, but I guess the outcome would have been the same. Call a social worker and get them involved.
Did you move into your parents home?
Are your parents still living independently with you helping?
Your answer to the above will dictate how to move forward. If your parents do not qualify for medicaid there is a way for them to spend down their assets so that they will qualify. This may require an elder law attorney to guide you or a LSW in private practice in your area.