My Mother has moderate AD. She is in an Assisted Living home but is getting worse. She's fallen a couple times. She's depressed. Really all she can do all day is watch TV by herself? My question is when is the right time for Skilled Nursing? What should I be looking for in her behavior that says now is the time?
Answers
The more care the better.
You know, no matter what you decide, it will be difficult. Much of what is important in taking care of a needy elder is that you keep your head on straight. My mom has Alzheimer's (my dad passed years ago), so the care falls on her sons and the care facility that we use. I honestly think that care providing is a team sport. If you can afford it, get someone to help in the home first. Then look at living options. You'll want to be close, and you will want time to transition through the changes. Old folks hate to lose their independence, and they'll take it out on you.
Good luck...