[zekesmom]

A couple of weeks ago my brother (year younger than me, the oldest) called to tell me that a year ago he bought our mother's home. At 73 she was having trouble making ends meet, and yet still wanted to maintain her independence. By paying off her home, she can live there rent free.

The underlying reason for the call was to inform me that when Mom goes, there probably wouldn't be any inheritance as most everything will have to be sold to pay off her debts (she'd been living on her credit cards).

I'm sure he thought that I might be upset (our sister was), but I was just too grateful at how he had stepped up to the plate and was taking care of our mother. I'd never been in a position to take care of her, so I was thankful for all he'd done.

I find it sad when siblings fight over what's left when a parent or parents die. What's even more disturbing is when they begin fighting over their inheritance while the parents are still alive.

[mcmama]

Very true. People fight over inheritance when frequently there isn't much of one. Meantime, the caregiving is so essential - and support for the caregiver from the family as well.

More and more these days, people are outliving their savings. When you make it into your 90s, or even 100, that is beyond what people that age ever expected. Health becomes a big concern, and a lot of the changes in finances and stretches for savings just don't cover it. So it is good when family can come together, and treasure our elders.

[Tracey with 6]

I think it is wonderful that your brother has done this and your other sibling just needs to get over it

[QueenAngie]

Your brother is wonderful to have stepped in to help your mother.

As you stated, you'd have done it, had you been able.

Is there anyway that her credit cards can be paid off and back down to zero?

Could she qualify for anything from the state as far as meals or food?

Wishing you and your family all the best!

[MissyChrissy]

(((HUGS))) I totally agree with you about people who fight over inheritance.

Your brother sounds like an amazing man.

[zekesmom]

Yes, my brother is an amazing man.
I believe my mother is getting what she's able to get, maybe $30 a month in food stamps, and medical aid.
My sister will get over it.
As far as paying off the debt, I believe she's paying the minimum, but we all know that's not going to reduce the principle by much.
Thanks to everyone for your comments.

[chio88]

Yes, your brother is such an amazing man to step up and take care of your mother. It is really a shame to fight over inheritance between siblings especially when parents are still alive.

[jmmv08]

Your brother is really an amazing man. It really feels sad when siblings fight over inheritance of their parents