is there any financial help for caregivers?

[Heather M.]

I just was wondering if there is any financial assistance that anyone knows of that can help a caregiver. My mom is retired and barely receives $900 a month, but she owns a home. I need help desperately because I had to quit my job to take care of her and we're not making it on the money my husband makes. Help please!!

[kimmek]

Hi Heather

So glad to hear your Mom is doing well. I am in exactly ther same boat as you are. Unfortunatly if there is help out there, I have yet to find it. My Mom has the same income as yours, she doesnt own a home, but luckily my brother picked up her rent and insurance costs. I had just gotten a new job myself when my mom was dx back in June, and I was unable to take it. It has been really hard on everyone financialy, and somehow we have made it this far.

I wish I had something to tell you to help. I am always on the look out so if I hear of anything I will let you know. As well as on here, there may be someone who knows of something, and I will follow this post to see also.

God Bless

Kim

[Snowflake]

I don't know how this works in all states, in Michigan, there is FIA (Family Independence Agency). This group puts in-home care in the homes of people who do not have the insurance nor funds to pay for it.

I know of a woman who is disabled, her husband supports six kids on low wages and she has someone who spends days with her when her husband is at work. Her helpmate is paid by the State, but I don't know how much, etc.

You may want to check into this with the "welfare agency" in your state.

Hope you find out something that works,

Becky

[cindi o'h]

Hi Heather.

I am really impressed by your dedication to care for your mom. What a gallant and loving daughter.

I am disappointed in the social system of this country.

The state will help by sending a stranger in to care for your mom while you work. How twisted is that? But, will not lend a dime if you take care of her with all of your loving care.

There is a lot of reform that needs to be done and the reform needs to start when society starts to respect illnesses and disabilities and the nurturing of the core family unit.

My fingers are crossed that something will turn up for you.

Cindi o'h

[Snowflake]

For clarification, the woman I spoke of has her mother sitting with her and being paid. She is in the process of switching to a friend.

I'm sure there's paperwork involved up the whazoo, but it can't hurt to try.

This is not a nurse or CNA, just a babysitter, so to speak.

[dadstimeon]

Hi Heather, Sorry to here about your mom and your situation. Here are some links that might help. Hope this helps or points you in the right direction. Rich

http://www.cancercare.org/FinancialNeed ... .cfm?c=388 (Financial Needs: Internet Links for Financial Assistance)

http://www.plwc.org/plwc/MainConstructo ... 008,00.asp (PLWC Feature: Financial Support Resources)

http://www.lungcanceronline.org/support/financial.html (Lung Cancer Online / Financial, Legal & Insurance Issues)

[DeanCarl]

Heather,

In California Contact In Home Supportive Serveces through Social Services. I think your mom will qualify due to her income even though she owns a home. The neat thing about IHSS is that your mom can hire WHOEVER SHE WANTS (including you!). The amount of pay will depend on how many hours of service IHSS authorizes. The pay isn't a lot (8.50 an hour) but it's a lot better than nothing.

Let me know how it works out.

Dean