My mom has been in and out of mental institutions a couple of times but she's always released within a week or so because she doesn't seem to be a danger to herself or others. The longest she's been in an institution is a few months where she was forced to take meds and she came out relatively calmer but she doesn't believe anything is wrong with her so she refuses to seek therapy or take meds. After much consultation with therapists, experts, etc., I've come to realize that I can't do much for her except to just be her daughter which I'm OK with. I'm not going to force help. What I can't figure out is what to do with her. She can't live with me and my family b/c she is too disruptive and I do'nt trust her around my baby. She's currently living in an apt I got for her but she's bothering the neighbors and manager at all hours of the night yelling and throwing scissors and accusing people of being against her/wanting to kidnap her/etc. She's been evicted before for being too disruptive and I'm scared that she might get evicted again. I'm afraid of what damage this will do to my credit report/rental history as these are under my name and credit. Plus, its just not realistic to keep doing this every few months. Is there a home for elderly mentally ill people? Not an institution but like an apt for mentally ill seniors?? Any help/info you have would be greatly appreciated. Thanks,
I don't have any firsthand experience with what you're going through but I have a good friend with a schizophrenic brother. She and her family have found great resources and support groups through NAMI. Maybe you can find some information on their website. http://www.nami.org/
Does she receive SSI/SSDI? If not, she should be making an application for this so you are not as financially responsible for her and so she has access to things that are only available to folks receiving this type of money.
I would also contact your county's mental health department to see what is available in your county. Additionally, there should be an Aging/Elderly Department you could check with as well. Finally, I would see if you cannot contact the dr. at the last place she was hospitalized to see if they have any information on help that is available.
Good luck!
Maybe contact Social Services or an Aging Services agency for some information. I hope you find the help she needs!
I would talk to a social worker at her hospital and see if a group type home night be available. They might be able to keep her on the meds as well there. It's very sad and I'm sorry you're going through this.
does she take vitamins? maybe you can fool her into taking her meds. Just a random thought.
sorry for your struggle. I know it has to be so hard.
Yes, she should be able to receive social security/disability benefits with her condition. She should also qualify for housing assistance, although it is difficult to find landlord who actually accept the vouchers for someone who is not physically incapacitated.
I am so sorry for your mother's and your struggles. I have a very close family member who suffers from schizophrenia and I can't stop thinking about what will happen to him as he ages.
I work on a crisis response team for Los Angeles County Dept. of Mental Health. I do know of some resources that may be helpful. I will respond privately with my phone # but the 24 hour hotline is: 1(800) 854-7771
