How to cope and help?

CaringDaughter33 · June 1

My family believes my father is struggling with early onset of dementia. He is very stubborn and does not like anyone telling him nor suggesting on what he can or cannot do. Always has called the shots and at 84 he is still driving his tractor and trying to farm. My mother lives with him and all of his kids me included are having such a hard time keeping him safe. Please any advice.

lfaust58 · June 1

Has your father actually been diagnosed with MCI or AD by a doctor? Remember, "innocent until proven guilty". You may want to speak to his doctor about your family's concerns in confidence.

CaringDaughter33 · June 1

no has not been diagnosed. Not part of his dr appointments. My mom is.

lfaust58 · June 1

Might be time to make it a part of his appointments. Does he have a checkup soon? Maybe the Dr can do an assessment?

eaglemom · June 2

It is wonderful that your concerned enough about your dad to seek information. Does your mom see him struggling? Has she mentioned it to you or your siblings? She's the one who will have to get this addressed I think. She needs to go with your dad to his PCP appt. Better yet, does she have access to your dad's patients portal? If so, she can write a note about her concerns before the appointment. Then the PCP can casually bring up the discussion. If she doesn't have access to his portal, she can put her concern in her portal to be brought up about your dad.

Farming, driving, heavy equipment, farm animals, etc can and should be a big concern for all of you. Your dad will probably never ever see it your way, but your job is to see to it that he is safe.

Let us know how you approach this.

eagle

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