My mom lived with us for 14 1/2 years. She had Alzheimer's, but it wasn't too bad until about 3 years before she died in 2005. My husband's employer offered the long term employees a buy out in 2002, so he took it, and we took care of her 24/7. It's certainly not the easiest thing to do, but it's doable. Best wishes to you and your family.