Since then, because of a fear of further injury, she just sits in a chair and looks out the window. A neighbor feeds her twice a day, but my friend hasn't bathed in a year. She has no family, so is considering a nursing home. To date, the solutions are elusive. Similar patients, with no family, exist in virtual isolation in the country, trying to keep going with partial help from neighbors or friends.
Most nursing homes have long waiting lists.
Young people, for various valid reasons, are often not in a position to help their shut-in relatives. There are several resources you might investigate. Start with your friend's doctor. Ask him or her to become involved. Second, ask your municipal Social Service Department for assistance.