It sucks, none of us are really prepared for such things as important as these. At first I was able to work and care for them, but after a while it became clear I could not work and take care of them as the disease and cure began to take larger tolls on their bodies and minds. Fortunately my mortgage and bills were very modest at the time so made a deal with them in a moment of lucidity that they pay my bills and buy the food I could be there for them full time. Three years I did this, sleeping on the couch. Doctors appointments, shopping, prescription renewals. Bathing, laundry, meals, house maintenance and the like. I won’t lie, it was exhausting, both physically and mentally. I did get breaks here and there when friends of theirs would offer to watch over them. The ol’ man went first after a little over a year so that lightened the load. The night before he passed he asked for a cig and a shot of whiskey. I went and got them for him. Afterwards he reached his hand out to mine, squeezing it he said, “you did good son, thank you”. You can’t believe how much that meant to me. It made it all worth it. Yes, I think some kind of alert system would be a good thing to have in place if he ever has to be left alone. I’m with you brother, it’s heartbreaking duty. Ask for help whenever possible, doing it all alone is tough man. I know. Ironically I find myself in need of care, but have no one for day to day struggles. An old girlfriend has been of great help when she can and I’ve an old buddy that drops by once a week to make sure I have what I need. While it’s very kind of them, it’s more comfortable to have a family member’s help because much of it is so personal of nature. Your help will be greatly appreciated by your dad. Sometimes it’s hard, but be patient and be kind. Pain and big pharma’s poisonous meds can make a person mean sometimes so don’t let it bother you. PS: This reply was meant to go out earlier, but a friend unexpectedly dropped by to check in on me. My heart goes out to you and I hope you and your dad can make the best of this situation for each other. God Bless and Godspeed my friend.