Coping Strategies

Mom is 85, diagnosed recently with Multi-infarct demen tia as result of TIA's.  No known high blood pressure; no heart disease.  She lives alone; my borther & I do not live in her town.  She still drives.
Problems beginning to arise - language problems -  crutch words used more and more; forgets recent events; names escape her.   Money management, bills not paid;  taxes ignored, responds to telemarketers, magazine subscriptions renewed till 2006. May  not be eating adequatley. Aricept has little positive effect.   Independence is great concern to her.  She is resistive to assistance; denies any problems.

Q:  What are some strategies for taking over her care? How do we know when to assert more control?

Thanks.
Bob

[HFHS MD - RG]

A thorough evaluation by a geriatric psychiatrist would be advisable. At that point, have a clear understanding and prognosis of her condition.Oftentimes, the elderly may be suffering from depression that may mimic dementia. If this is not the case and she is truly has a sole diagnosis of dementia,
family members including yourself would need to make a decision if you would want to petition to the court and declare her incompetent and based on the merits of your psychiatrist findings and her presentation, the court can grant you (and the rest of family members) limited or unlimited custodial care of her.

I advise tat you consult a legal counsel specializing in family courts as well.