Legal Question in Elder Law in Massachusetts

being intimidated by elderly services

I live upstairs from my mother who was recently discharged from a nursing home. I am being told by the health care workers who come to assist her on a limited basis that I am LEGALLY responsible to care for my mother...meds, meals, toileting, etc.

She is a two person assist and wheelchair bound. I am told if I do not take responsibility for her and care for her, that would be considered negligence and elderly abuse. Is this true?


Asked on 4/16/09, 4:04 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Alexandra Golden Golden Law Center

Re: being intimidated by elderly services

The answer is "maybe." It sounds like you have a huge job on your hands, and you could use the help of a an independent geriatric care manager (GCM). A GCM is a private social worker or nurse who can work with you and your mother to develop an appropriate care plan and help you find the resources to reduce the risk of burn-out. She can also run interference with the home health agency. Go to caremanager.org for more information.

I also suggest contacting a local elder law attorney. You need advice about the legal and financial challenges you face.

Good luck to you.

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Answered on 4/18/09, 5:49 pm


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