He was so sick he could not remember to call for appts. It seems only the squeaky wheel gets the grease. Your friend was blessed to have you be his advocate. It is hard being one's own advocate for most people when we are healthy, it is nearly impossible when we are ill. No decision has to be forever.
Some facilities offer respite care for several days or weeks.
This might be a healthy first step if you are not sure about your decision. Explain what respite care includes and why it is so important for caregivers. It can be for a few hours or several days. Respite can also be creative such as a co-op. The National Family Caregivers Association seeks to network caregivers who live in the same area.