Balancing Full-Time Work, Family, and 24/7 Care for a Mother with Alzheimer's
A working parent describes the relentless demands of coordinating round-the-clock in-home care for her mother diagnosed with Alzheimer’s.
Two and a half years after her mother’s Alzheimer’s diagnosis, the writer obtained Medicaid support to fund full-time in-home aides, yet the caregiving burden remains overwhelming. Her mother relies heavily on her for emotional reassurance, sending dozens of texts and calls each day about medication and visits. The family lives nearby, so they intervene for errands, home repairs, and occasional lock-outs that require emergency services.
The author also oversees medical appointments, pharmacy refills, bill payments, and constant coordination with caregivers and doctors. Frequent crises and the relentless schedule cause sleepless nights and concern for her own mental health, even as she cherishes brief moments of connection with her mother.
Why it matters
It highlights the hidden, nonstop challenges families face when caring for loved ones with Alzheimer’s while maintaining jobs.
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