Call your local social services. There are visiting nurses, etc that can help her. They can, also, evaluate whether she should be in an assisted living residence. If she’s losing her memory, it may be time for her to be somewhere where she can be monitored. How nice of you to care about her!!

You may have to contact DHS. They have a DHSAdvantage program which will send a caseworker out to determine her needs. They can help her continue to live on her own. This can be anything from food to cleaning, companionship or helping with errands. If for some reason they determine she is at risk then the state will make the decision to place her in a home where she can be cared for. I believe that you might be able to call it in without giving your name otherwise you might let her know about the program. It just depends on her personality. I know because I am going through this right now and my prayer are with you.

you can call the local chapter of friends and family members living with Aylmer’s…they can best suggest how to handle the situation. or ask local nursing homes, many times at her age social security will pick up the cost of care. and remind her that you are a friend. she needs 1 of those right now.

As we get older we all lose part of our memory. Sometimes it can be caused by certain medications or even depression after losing a spouse. You say she is very independent so she must be doing something right. Try contacting your local senior services center. There are many retired people who have the time to check in on people such as your friend. Sometimes they also assist with housework and errands. When you start getting state and federal agencies involved it could mean the end of her independence. There are also organizations such as meals on wheels which will bring her hot meals daily and check on her for little or no cost. I have many senior friends and I have found ways around many of the dangerous hazards. Be sure smoke alarms have been installed and the batteries are good. Make signs and hang them up as reminders. Just explain to your friend that you understand her need to be independent but others don’t always have the same opinion and you want to help her live on her own as long as she possibly can. If she drives, let the BMV decide whether it is safe for her to drive or not. In Indiana seniors must take a driving test every year after they reach the age of 70. That way if she isn’t capable of driving herself; you don’t have to do the dirty work of telling her she should no longer drive. Just treat her as you would like to be treated when you are 79. Of course if she is in danger you should contact adult protective services and let them handle the situation. You will be blessed for your kindness.

she probably knows that things are not right.. the best thing you can do for her is to be there for her when ever you can … she will tell you that something is wrong then you can offer to get her help… if you go ahead and get her help she will feel betrayed … what a wonderful person you are to take the time out for an elderly person……………good luck

Really all you can do is show her love, which can be the cure for anything really. I mean, do try to get in touch with someone who could better help in the social service area, but still, by all means, do love her as much as possible.