Bounty,
I cared for my terminally ill mother until she passed away.  I was determined to keep her out of a nursing home.  So much so that it cost me my job in the process.  I had my priorities.
I'm also suffering the degenerative effects of a knee injury ten years ago.  I don't know the level of pain that you're experiencing, but I do know that the pain can be incredible at times.
Good luck,
Steve