DEAR ABBY: My father, who is 84, just had a mild stroke. The problem is he wants to drive his car. My sister says we should just let him, but I don't think he's capable of driving safely anymore. She says we can't legally stop him from driving.
Dad has occasional dizzy spells and double vision, which started the day he had a stroke several weeks ago. He has also lost a lot of weight and has been told he needs to eat a heart-healthy diet and eat more. Dad has diabetes and high cholesterol. He has had problems with his memory lately, too, and not just age-related. He can't remember details from doctors' appointments, forgets to take his blood pressure a couple times a day and can't remember what he is supposed to do for physical therapy.
I think we should be taking care of Dad now and driving him wherever he needs to go. I personally do not want him endangering himself or others if he drives. Please advise. -- CAUTIOUS IN CALIFORNIA
DEAR CAUTIOUS: It's time for a serious family discussion about how to handle this. Your father needs a lot more help than chauffeur service. He needs someone to accompany him to doctors' appointments, and someone to supervise or administer his medications. He should not be behind the wheel of a car, and I'm not even sure he should be living alone. His doctor should be contacted about informing the DMV about your father's health status. He may also need assisted living if it's financially feasible.