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I was the only surviving child.  My father lived in San Diego where he wanted to stay after a stroke.  I was fortunate to find a tenant for him through "Shared Housing" and a geriatric specialist through "Lifeline Healthcare".  We had a local friend who I paid to call him frequently and drive him to events. 

Downside:  the "friend" was also charging my father who gave her his $100 weekly allowance.  Door to door salespeople conned him into giving him money and signing him up for services.  A derelict woman moved in with the tenant and my father until his therapist convinced him she was over 50 and should be taking care of herself.  She left with the silver.

It took me 2 weeks of daily work and a large dumpster to clean out the house and garage after his death.  I bitterly regret not having more time and my parents help to go through the "museum" of my parents' lives. 

Moral:  build an invisible corral around your loved one but nothing will replace your personal attention.

posted 2 years, 4 months ago
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