<prompt> Human: Hi All,I just learned this weekend that my mom has cancer and the prognosis is not good. Im still getting a handle on this emotionally along with my parents but there is a lot of stuff coming up that I could use some direction on. Im hoping some of the level heads here could share some perspective on what I should prioritize. Facts: Mom is still in the hospital under observation rather than admitted. I get the feeling that they want to put her out as soon as they can. Options? The hospital is trying to get mom to choose a nursing home. Moms an independent sort and wont choose the one my wife is a nurse in. Shouldnt I try to steer Mom in that direction? Dad is retired. Mom still works. Mom has insurance through work but after another month or two she would have to continue her insurance through COBRA. Is that the way I should go or should I try to get her on Medicare? My parents home is paid off. Should I talk to Dad about selling it and moving in with me? Supposing he would consider that at all. My parents dont have much money. Probably the house, a small boat, a couple of cars is about it. How can I help them protect whats left? Should I find them an attorney? What kind? Of the Redditors that have knowledge of these things, what else should I be asking? Who else should I be talking to? Im going to work now and visiting Mom after so I wont be checking this again until later tonight. For those of you observing the Holiday, Happy Easter.Edit Mom is 66 and her diagnosis is Stage 4 Cancer that has spread throughout her body, including to her brain. Doctor says two months to a year depending on how treatment goes. Edit2: Thank you for all the info and insights. I definitely have a better idea how to get started. Thank you also for the kind words. I find its a relief to have some things to focus on. Please keep the info coming. I plan to keep coming back here for information. Edit3: uclassactress I may take you up on your offer. I will let you know.  <response>: Talk to the case manager assigned to your mom at the hospital- discuss home health vs nursing home with them, as your mom at this point is still independent and of sound mind. When her health begins to decline and she requires more care then a move to nursing home or hospice carewhich can be done in a facility or at home. Nursing homes have a negative thoughts associated with them- its a loss of independence to majority of aged people even if its painfully obvious that they need the help and care. When more care is needed she may or the decision is made for her going to the SNF your wife works at may be a good choice- your wife will be able to check in regularly with mom- but depending on wife mother in law relationship would your wife be able to remain working there after your mom passes away? If shes 65 apply for Medicare, COBRA is also a good option- its a little pricey but its coverage may actually be pretty good- check and see with her employer how long the carry over from her insurance from work is after she quits, some employers used to extend for at least a month, but Im not sure. Home is owned- if hospital bills end up being sold to collections they cannot touch your parents home or vehicle. They can only harass and guilt trip through phone calls and mail. If dad is independent and wishes to remain living in the house let him stay in the house if he wants to. Attorney is probably not necessary at this point unless parents want to do an official will, but health care advocatedurable power of attorneyPOA for health care decisions for mom and dad in the future needs to be addressed, at some point shell probably need someone to make her care decisions for her. They have those forms at the hospital no fees, all it takes is your parents signatures and a random witness to sign or you can go to an attorneys office fees if you wish.The bills are going to come regardless- youre at a point where you can always make more money, but you cant make more time. Honestly, squeeze in as much time and make as many memories as you can with your mom, dad, and family NOW. 