Income (SSDI) until two and a half years after he stopped working. Maria became his representative payee, and since their savings had evaporated she applied for him to receive AHCCCS benefits, then long-term care support through ALTCS. Although an office worker, she became a state-certified caregiver while at Soreo.
of the home through a financial power of attorney or a special court conservatorship. The spouse who owns the home can then decide its disposition after death. Maria petitioned the court with pro bono legal assistance. Jorge qualified for hospice services in 2024, then passed away at home on March 28, 2025, nearly 50 years after they first met. Maria acknowledges that being responsible for 24/7 care of a loved one at home is not for everyone. She was often exhausted, and Jorge could be difficult at times. “I tell people that if they’re considering this, to think very, very hard about what it requires,” she says. “But it gave me purpose, and I miss that part of it.” ◆
children were supportive but had their own families and work demands. She took the initiative to explore all available options, which involved many phone calls and conversations with health care providers. ALTCS Home and Community-Based Services provided part-time caregivers for Jorge when he moved back home, then Maria learned
“He was my everything. I kept an eye on him no matter what,” she says. “He always protected me until the end, and I wanted to do the same for him.”
Many people are easily overwhelmed by the bureaucratic requirements when processing applications for Social Security Disability, AHCCCS and ALTCS benefits, but Maria was undaunted. “When you’re used to having the husband in charge, you’re basically starting from scratch,” says Maria. The
she could be paid as well and took the ALTCS caregiver training program to qualify. She turned to the Pima Council on Aging legal clinic in 2022 to obtain legal advice about preparing a will and powers of attorney. The attorney pointed out that ALTCS allows the spouse of an ALTCS recipient to obtain full ownership
My grandpa is in the early stages of dementia... It’s a lot to manage with school and my other responsibilities, but I have to make sure he’s getting the care and medication he needs.
Connect to trusted caregiver resources at pcoa.org or call (520) 790-7262. Yes, you are, and we can help.
November & December 2026, Never Too Late | Page 17
Pima Council on Aging
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