In a pickle - mum in hospital, won't be safe at home

[Hembria]

My dear mum who is almost 80, has had to have her lower leg amputated following an infection. Since being in hospital it is very clear that she has some serious memory and cognitive problems. She has no idea she is in hospital and can't even remember that her leg is missing and keeps trying to walk on it.

My dad is very frail and suffering from Parkinsons. So I know he can't look after her if she returns home.

They have always been against any kind of poa and I have absolutely no idea if they have any money to pay for care or care homes. I dont live in the UK and cant move back anytime soon (children and job). I really have no idea where to start.

Have any of you experienced anything similar?
Will the hospital send her home even if it is unsafe?
What if she has no money for a care home, what happens?

My parents do own a house and have always worked. In case that effects anything.

If the cognitive decline appears so extreme, it most likely isn't dementia and actually an undetected infection. Please push for tests such as urine and blood. Many wards don't do this and just assume cognitive decline.

@ChoiceMummy

If the cognitive decline appears so extreme, it most likely isn't dementia and actually an undetected infection. Please push for tests such as urine and blood. Many wards don't do this and just assume cognitive decline.

I'd agree with this. Also we found that Dad was utterly confused in hospital (thought he was on a train travelling North) but as soon as he went through his own front door, it was like a switch clicked on and he reverted to cognitive normality.

As long as everyone knows your Dad can't care for your Mum and you get help to put a care package in place, she may be able to return home after rehab.

Elderly patients often get delirium in hospital. My father also thought he was on a train.

@Cookerhood

Elderly patients often get delirium in hospital. My father also thought he was on a train.

How interesting! Maybe it's a 'thing' , the train journey. 4 years later Dad still speaks about the train trips although he is aware (now) that they weren't actually happening. He has vascular dementia now but manages well at home with help.

Can people please please stop peddling the myth that people are entitled to 6 weeks free care when they leave hospital, they are not! There is usually a short term reablement package that can be put in place if the person is considered to have rehab potential but this is not in any way guaranteed and depends if the service has capacity but even this is less than 6 weeks. I work in hospital discharge and people spreading this myth causes so many problems so please stop
It.

www.nhs.uk/conditions/social-care-and-support-guide/care-after-a-hospital-stay/arranging-care-before-you-leave-hospital/

This is the NHS guidance

Thanks everyone so much! I visited the hospital again today and raised the issue of dad being frail and asked about possible infections, she does indeed have a urine infection.
I know I said it before but I'm very grateful for your advice and help. I cried some ugly tears after saying goodbye today but felt very thankful to have received so much practical advice and support.