Dusty,   I would first love to know the kinds of things that used to interest your mom before she was diagnosised with Alzheimer's.  For example:  my granddad used to love to fish.  I set up a fishing kit for him to organize and sort and match.  He had a short attention span but with this kit, he would stay occupied for an hour and a half.  I once helped a lady who had been a librarian before retiring.  She would wander aimlessly for hours.  We set up a table with books, a stamp, a pad, and 3X5 index cards.  She would spend two hours organizing the books.  Not only did it give her something to do but it also made her so happy to feel that she had a purpose. If you'd like to email me directly, I might be able to come up with some good ideas that might work for you and your mom.  Katrina@alzcaregroup.com   Also, don't forget about companion services.  Often you can have someone come and sit with your mom at a reasonable cost.  This might also be an option for you.