Sera,

It is always difficult trying to find the situation that works best for your mom.  Sometimes it involves trial and error.  She claims that she wants more activity, yet will not participate in her assisted living's current activities.  The important thing is that your mother is talking about her likes/dislikes and frusterations.  Ask her specific questions.  “What activities would you like to see added?”  What current activities are you involved in that you like?”  Try to uncover the truth behind her request.  She may just be trying to talk with you or she may be depressed.  Understanding the root cause is step one in determining what is really going on.

Determining whether your mom needs stay at home care or assisted living can be difficult.  Why did she move into assisted living in the first place?  What benefits does it have versus at home care?  If your mother is truly seeking a social/active life-style, assisted living may be the best option.  Many times people want to stay at home, but find themselves bored or in need of stimulation and social interaction.  Conversely, staying at home and keeping an active/social life-style may be ideal for your mother. 

You will have to weigh the pros and cons and work to uncover what your mother truly wants and needs.  Safety and health are key factors, but happiness plays a huge role in her overall well-being.  Be sure to keep an open dialogue with your mother, friends, and family members.  

Good luck and God bless in your quest! 

If you are considering assisted living facilities, please do more research than just investigating pleasant decorations. Are the employess licensed and bonded? Are background checks done? Is there proper security?  What are the employees training? First aid? CPR? LPNS? RNS? Be aware in the state of Colorado only 30 hours of training are required to become an administrator of an assisted care facility. That's less training than Starbucks or MacDonalds gives their managers!

If your mom doesn't need serious medical attention then there will be no problem if you opt for a personal home care. But you need to understand that this will be very challenging especially if she needs help with her daily living activites. You can hire an elder care specialist through an agency or you can find one on your own. It's better to have a skilled professional to watch her rather than do everything on your own and as you've said money is tight then you don't want to sacrifice your job. 

CLASS Act