I’m caring for my elderly mum who is scared to leave house – I’m tired & have medical issues, but my siblings won’t help

DEAR DEIDRE: AFTER having a fall, my mum has completely lost her confidence.

Even though she had a hip replacement, she is terrified it will happen again so spends most days lying in bed.

I am her 62-year-old son. My mother is 88. I moved into her house almost three years ago to care for her. I have a brother and two sisters who are all in their 50s but I don’t get much help from them.

I have hardly had a day off caring and I am so tired. I have medical issues of my own and I am ready to move back into my daughter’s home to rest.

My mother’s house needs repairs but because of the costs involved she is unable to sell it.

If she could, the proceeds of the sale could fund care for her. My brother has power of attorney and will get the house when she dies.

I have asked my siblings to help but it seems they are too busy. What should I do?

DEIDRE SAYS: I’m sorry. Money issues and inheritance can often cause families to fall out.

Your brother has power of attorney but if you feel there has been a misuse, because he will inherit your mother’s house, you can have this investigated through the Office of the Public Guardian.

Tell your siblings you want to share your mother’s care and seek advice on how best to do this through Age UK (ageuk.org.uk, 0800 678 1602).