Stuck Between a Rock and a Hard Place

by Arcfontis
(Nashville, TN)

I am a single, unemployed 56 year old male. In 2007, I made a decision to move into my parents house and make the attic into a living area for me. I have put over $50,000 into this house. I have been unemployed since March 2011.

My Father (87) fell and broke his right hip in Feb. 2011 and starting declining ever since. He is now in a nursing home in Springfield, TN.

My Mother (84) is still at home with me. She has been in and out of hospitals, rehabs, for the past year. She has now been diagnosed with Dementia, among other things, and I am having to care for her 24/7 now.

I have been unable to look for work for almost 2 years now. My Unemployment checks ran out long ago and I am now living off savings. My only sister died in 1983 and I am the only child left.

I now can not leave the house except for a few minutes to get groceries, medicines, etc... I feel like a prisoner, my life is gone such as it was, and I find myself wanting out of this situation.

I have been dealing with depression for the past 17 years. I am currently on 3 different medications for Depression. I feel I can barely take care of myself much less a parent with Dementia...

My Parents made absolutely no plans for this stage of their lives. No Life Insurance, I was able to get My Mom on Long Term Insurance back in the late 90's but not my Dad. I feel overwhelmed and want to escape.

I wasn't close to either parent growing up - and I really don't have patience with her now. Frankly, seeing how they are now - I am terrified I'm looking at myself 25 years from now.

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I totally understand
by: Susan

I am in the same situation, except I'm 50 and female. I moved in with parents to go back to school to get a master's degree.

Well, dad broke his hip and mom had a stroke. Both are 90 now and frail. They made no plans for their old age and I'm so angry.

I also care for my 88 year old uncle and a 93 year old friend I was stupid enough to "adopt" as she had nobody to help her. I feel like I'm going crazy and am stressed all the time. The only reason I haven't committed suicide is because of my dog!

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