Mother currently in an AL facility. Her medical condition will now require 24/7 supervision with private caregiver. The cost for that is insane, so we are considering renting an apartment and privately employing a live-in companion. Good idea? Bad idea? Shared experiences? All new to us, so any insight and advice appreciated. Thanks!
I'm glad it's working out for your mom at home. I was a private-pay caregiver for years. This can be great for a person to keep them home. You did right hiring more than one caregiver.
It all depends on what their conditions are. Sometimes they need nursing home care or memory care.
A companion can't manage it. No one should ever have just one person doing 24/7 care to begin with.
Place your mother. That's usually what's best. Hire a companion to go to the nursing home you put her in to visit and entertain her.
If mom has dementia and is wandering or she needs more that a 2 person assist for getting her out of bed, up out of a char or any other transfer AL facilities can not do that. the use of "equipment" is limited to Skilled Nursing facilities.
If mom is wandering then she needs to be in a secure Memory Care facility.
If the reason for her to be moved is they need to use equipment then you will have to get the equipment in any apartment or condo you lease or buy.
If the reason is wandering you will have the same risk in any apartment or condo.
A bit of info as to why she now needs 24/7 care might help the answers.