Dignity in old age: caring for Rose

I'm caring for my mother, who's 82. After the death of her spouse Rose can no longer manage alone. A nursing home would cost far more than we have, and Rose desperately wants to stay at home. I work 30 hours a week and have cut back to look after her, but we need a part-time carer. Rose worked all of her life as a carpenter, and raised 2 children. Now we're trying to give some of that care back. Medication, a hospital bed and a carer for six months will make a huge difference. The carer will be employed through a registered agency and paid directly. I'll share the agency invoices. Where the $850 goes: • Part-time carer (six months): $680 • Medication and prescriptions: $95 • Hospital bed and mattress rental: $40 • Mobility aids and bathroom adaptations: $35 Even a small gift gets used right away and I'll thank you myself.