We live out in the country and there are a few homes on our road which is a dead end. I notices this lady walking down the road past our home and headed toward the post office about a 1/2 mile away. I have never seen this woman before and it just seemed strange to me. I took my dog for a walk and I wanted to see which house she lived in. I noticed that there was not a car at her home. Her son has left her out here. My wife tells me that the ladies son stopped by our house and told my wife that his mom has dementia and that he will come by and check on her. I saw her walking againg today and she is very out of it. I asked her for her son's phone number and she told me she was go to meet him at the post office. An hours passes and she walks back home.
Her son has just rented a house out in the sticks and dumped her off.
I have not seen him. I am trying to get his phone number. I am asking neighbors and no one has his number. I can understand his Mom acting odd if a stranger is asking questions
I really would have a talk with Adult Protective Services. It would certainly put the son on notice of the severity of mom's condition, if really isn't aware or understanding of what dementia is...and the danger mom could be in. Also, they can get answers to things you and the neighbors can't...like phone numbers, responsible parties. Scarey, huh? Let us know what happens!
This is a case where you will be helping by notifying Adult Protective Services. Your call is kept confidential, but they will check out the arrangements for her care and intervene as necessary. Any responsible Caregiver will appreciate the concern for her health and welbeing--an irresponsible one deserves whatever happens.
You might try calling Department of Social Services. In our county that is how Adult Protective Services are accessed. Sad to say, but it is possible the sheriff's department may not have a good understanding of what is available (and necessary, it seems). It often takes someone with knowledge of dementia hazards to recognize what needs to be done. Bless you for caring.
This is unreal..that son should be in jail for this if this is what actually is happening to this poor woman..I agree. Call Social Services/Adult Protective Services or even the Alzheimer's Assn in your area for help with this. What goes around comes around and that son will get his one day.
moorsb, Here they are under The Dept of Health and Human Services. If you can't find a listing for them there I would call any of their numbers and ask for a number for adult protective services. If you don't get the right number, lots of times they can help direct you.
Also try looking under Elder Services. The Alzheimers Chapter near you should also have a number of someone who could help. Your a good man, even if you do drive a fancy smancy convertable!