I understand, January, but if your mom is capable of making her own decisions and understands that is what would happen, I still believe she should make her own decision. Don't misunderstand; I know you feel as you do and did as you did because you love and care for her. But I believe in freedom, and that means loved ones may make choices you disapprove of.

KathyM, you're basically the kind of person I'm talking about. I believe people have the right to "pursue happiness," even if it seems a poor choice to others. That said, of course, one's right to pursue happiness--one's rights--end where others' begin. I don't believe anyone should be put into a nursing home or anywhere else if they can function in their own home, take care of themselves (and if not, if possible and it's their preference, they should get someone who can take care of them in their own home), and not endanger others. Just because you are elderly or disabled doesn't mean your freedoms and rights should be taken away.