Backyard House Keeps Mom Close, Cuts Nursing-Home Costs

James Cornell built a 1,000-square-foot house on his property for his mother, who has vascular dementia, at a total cost of about $110,000. She paid roughly 90% of the cost, and he now coordinates her care with two hired helpers, keeping her nearby to avoid expensive nursing-home care. Established around 2013–2014, the arrangement includes safety features and a full caregiving routine to support them as her condition progresses.