She's nearly 81 and has always been fit and active with a bright mind. The last few months she has gone downhill, constantly exhausted and having terrible night sweats which the doctor puts down to high cholesterol . She forgets things she has said and loses things around the house and outside. She can't be bothered or doesn't feel able to cook for herself so lives on sandwiches, chocolate and the odd banana. She keeps herself clean and tidy but her house is becoming a mess, which she doesn't seem to see. From what I can gather her finances are also in a bit of state.
I do what I can - I only live 30 minutes drive away - but I work 3 long days a week and have two 6 year old daughters. It's not possible for her to live with me.
I really think it's getting to the stage where she either needs someone to go in on a daily basis and help clean/cook or she needs to go into some type of sheltered accommodation.
But in her mind she is still a feisty independent lady who doesn't want to admit that she's reached this stage and needs help. I suggested something like meals on wheels (not sure if that still exists?) and she exploded at me, saying she wouldn't let them in!! When I suggested sheltered accommodation she said she hopes it doesn't get to that, she'd rather just go to bed one evening and not wake up .
I'm worried about her and feel guilty that I can't give her more attention and care. I intend to go there for the day on Saturday and blitz the cleaning and take her out for lunch, but that is only short-term, it'll soon be back to how it was.