My parents are 66 and 75 YOA and have been developing new and worsening health issues. I am the only child living in Florida. I am currently residing in the home with them, and I need help. I have found it more and more necessary for me to be here. I need to be able to make a living, but I don't feel comfortable leaving them unattended. They are unable to help each other if something happened. She has trouble walking due to continually breaking her foot and being scheduled for spinal surgery after the first of the year. He has two broken ribs due to a fall recently, as a result of an ongoing problem with blood pressure drops causing dizziness and falls with NO warning. They both experience memory problems and NEED help. If I can't work outside the home, I need help here. How can I supplement my income?? Thank you !!!
My gosh your Mom is always breaking her foot. Why is that happening?
I think once your parents get their ailments under control, and have their meds checked [some can make one not think clearly] then maybe your parents can have their independence back.
As someone else wrote, in home healthcare is very expensive and not a lot of people can afford it. If your parents can't live on their own you might consider a skilled nursing facility for one or both of them. That's expensive too but there are programs in place like Medicaid that help with the cost.
You are young, and *so are your parents*. They're no age to speak of. They do have significant health conditions, but do not infantilise them by taking over responsibility for them. They are responsible for themselves, and for one another. Assist them to find appropriate support, do not get inextricably involved, and DO NOT GIVE UP YOUR JOB.
As long as they are competent, I'd give them the information and they can take it from there. It's very difficult to convince someone they need in-home help or assisted living. If they are still competent, it's their decision.
You might ask if they would consent to have an assessment done. Some states require a doctor's order or professional assessment in order to get Assisted Living benefits, if their state provides that. Some states pay for AL for those who qualify according to a doctor and financially.
If they are relying on you to stay with them around the clock, I'd explain that that is not possible. I might even try to move out, so they get just how much help they need. It might sound mean, but, what they will need sounds just too much for one person.
You might make sure they have their Durable Power of Attorney, Healthcare POA, Living Wills, signed and in a safe place you can get to.
I'd plan now, to avoid a crisis down the road.